What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
malfunction
Example
The printer is malfunctioning and won't print anything. [malfunctioning: present participle]
Example
There was a malfunction in the engine, causing the plane to make an emergency landing. [malfunction: noun]
fault
Example
The car's brakes failed due to a fault in the manufacturing process. [fault: noun]
Example
It's not my fault that the report was late. [fault: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fault is more commonly used than malfunction in everyday language. Fault is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while malfunction is more technical and specific.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between malfunction and fault?
While malfunction is typically associated with a technical and formal tone, fault is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
