misfunctioning
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /mɪsˈfʌŋkʃənɪŋ/
KK: /mɪsˈfʌŋkʃənɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Not working correctly or as intended; experiencing a failure in function.
Example
The misfunctioning device caused a lot of frustration during the presentation.
Conversation
Hey, have you noticed that the coffee machine is misfunctioning?
Yeah, it keeps making weird noises instead of brewing coffee.
I thought it was just me! We should probably get it checked out.
Definitely, I can't start my day without a decent cup of coffee.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
faulty
defective
malfunctioning
Antonyms
functional
operational
effective
verb
Definition
To operate incorrectly or not function as intended.
Example
The device is misfunctioning, causing it to produce strange noises.
Tense Forms
Past: misfunctioned
Past Participle: misfunctioned
Conversation
I think my computer is misfunctioning again.
Oh no! What’s wrong with it this time?
It keeps freezing whenever I try to open a program.
Root Explanation
Misfunctioning → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrongly or badly) and "function" (from Latin "functio", meaning performance or execution). The word describes a state of performing or executing something in a wrong or faulty manner.
Memory Tip
Think of 'mis-' meaning wrongly and 'function' referring to how something works. This helps you remember that misfunctioning means something is working incorrectly.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.