Basic Details
Word: Malfunction
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To fail to work properly or as intended.
Synonyms: Breakdown, failure, error
Antonyms: Function, operate, perform
Idioms and Phrases
- Go wrong: To make a mistake or experience trouble. Example: "The car went wrong when the engine started making strange noises."
- Out of order: Not working; broken. Example: "The lift is out of order, so we have to take the stairs."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The printer began to malfunction, causing the documents to come out with missing pages.
Example 2: During the performance, the microphone malfunctioned, and the singer had to continue without it.
Example 3: If the computer malfunctions, it might lose all the saved files, so remember to back them up regularly.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "malfunction" originates from the Latin root "mal-" meaning "bad" and "function" which means "to work"? Together, they denote something that does not work as it should.
Famous Quote
"In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun." - Mary Poppins. Even when things malfunction, a bit of fun can help us figure it out!
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "malfunction" mean?
a) To work perfectly
b) To fail to work properly
c) To function smoothly
d) To create an error
Answer: b) To fail to work properly
2. Which of these is a synonym of "malfunction"?
a) Function
b) Breakdown
c) Operate
d) Perform
Answer: b) Breakdown
3. Which sentence uses "malfunction" correctly?
a) The clock will malfunction at 9 PM.
b) The clock needs to be wound up to malfunction.
c) The clock works well and does not malfunction.
d) The clock can show the time without malfunctioning.
Answer: c) The clock works well and does not malfunction.
4. Which idiom means something similar to "malfunction"?
a) Good to go
b) Go wrong
c) Right as rain
d) All systems go
Answer: b) Go wrong
5. What is the opposite of "malfunction"?
a) Failure
b) Breakdown
c) Function
d) Error
Answer: c) Function
