faulty - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
faulty Word Meanings
- having flaws or defects
- not working properly
- having errors or mistakes
faulty Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
faulty Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈfɔːlti/
US
/ˈfɔlti/
faulty Word Etymology
Faulty comes from 'fault' (failure) + 'y' (pertaining to). Origin: Latin 'fallere' (to deceive) → Old French 'faute' → English 'fault'. Imagine a broken machine that doesn’t work anymore, symbolizing error and disappointment.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Faulty describes something that has defects or is not functioning properly. It is typically used for objects like machines, electronics, or parts of a system, but it can also refer to a faulty argument or plan. The word carries a sense of fault or error that has been discovered, often implying that repair or replacement is needed. It does not usually describe a person; we say someone’s judgment may be faulty rather than a person being faulty. Learners should distinguish faulty from defective: defective suggests an inherent, usually permanent flaw, while faulty emphasizes a current malfunction. Examples: a faulty toaster, a faulty memory, a faulty assumption.
Usage Reminders
- - Use faulty for objects or systems, not people
- - Distinguish faulty from defective: current malfunction vs permanent defect
- - Place before the noun: a faulty fuse, not a fuse faulty
- - Pair with technical terms (device, sensor, switch) to sound natural
- - In formal writing, reserve faulty for plausible faults, not moral judgments
Common Misconceptions
- Faulty means people are bad or untrustworthy
- Defective and faulty are always interchangeable
- A faulty argument can never be corrected
- A device that works sometimes is not faulty
- Faulty describes moral failure, not technical failure
Thinking Differences
Think of faulty as the standard English label for currently malfunctioning objects; learners often flip it with defective, which can imply a more permanent flaw. English also uses faulty for ideas (faulty logic) without suggesting moral blame.
Learning Tips
- Think of faulty as about current malfunctions, not moral judgments
- Use a before a noun: a faulty device, a faulty switch
- Contrast with defective to show duration vs momentary issue
- Practice with both concrete objects and abstract ideas (faulty reasoning)
- Read and listen for collocations like faulty memory or faulty wiring
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'faulty' correctly?
A.The faulty book is interesting.
B.The faulty cat purred all night.
C.His faulty smile brightened the room.
D.She received a faulty grade on her exam.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which is a synonym of 'faulty'?
A.Perfect
B.Flawless
C.Broken
D.Correct
Step 4: Opposite Words
In which situation would you use the word 'faulty'?
A.A brand new laptop that works perfectly.
B.A well-organized event.
C.A car with faulty brakes.
D.A reliable friend
Step 5: Mastery
How would you describe a 'faulty' product?
A.Fun
B.Broken
C.Fast
D.Common
Related Listening
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