faulty

Everyday

1. Faulty means not working properly because something is wrong with it. tree →
2. Faulty can describe thinking or reasoning that has a mistake in it. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life and safety, faulty wires, plugs and toys can be dangerous and should be reported; in shops faulty goods can be returned. In maths a faulty method gives wrong answers. Phrases: «a faulty wire», «faulty goods», «faulty brakes», «faulty reasoning».

Examples

• The lamp has a faulty switch. tree →
• Don't use that faulty plug; it could give a shock. tree →
• We took the faulty toy back to the shop. tree →
• The fire was caused by faulty wiring. tree →
• His argument was faulty because he left out a step. tree →
• The car's brakes were faulty. tree →
• Tell an adult if something electrical looks faulty. tree →
• “What is there faulty in it?” Flahri asked. tree →

Note

From «fault» + «-y». Comparative «faultier» is rare; people say «more faulty». Safety: never touch broken or burnt plugs and wires; tell an adult and switch off at the wall.