Dysfunctional: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe systems, relationships, or organizations that are not working properly or as intended.

• The company's management team is highly dysfunctional, leading to poor decision-making.
• Their marriage became dysfunctional after years of unresolved conflicts.

Used for mechanical or electronic systems that are not operating correctly. It's often used in technical or engineering contexts.

• The space probe's malfunctioning thrusters jeopardized the mission.
• Her computer is constantly malfunctioning, causing her to lose important work.

Describes something that is prone to change, not steady, or not reliable. It can be used for objects, systems, or even people's emotions.

• The political situation in the region remains highly unstable.
• He has been emotionally unstable since the accident.

Used to describe something (such as a system, relationship, or organization) that is not operating normally or properly. Often implies a deeper, more chronic issue.

• The family was described as deeply dysfunctional due to their constant arguments and lack of communication.
• The company’s dysfunctional management led to its eventual bankruptcy.

Refers to a product or item that has a flaw or fault, making it imperfect or useless in some way. Can also describe something that is broken or not working correctly.

• The toy was recalled because it was found to be defective and posed a safety hazard to children.
• He returned the laptop to the store because the screen was defective and kept flickering.

Describes a process, system, or person that does not use time, resources, or energy effectively. Often used in business, technical, and organizational contexts.

• The old heating system is very inefficient and wastes a lot of energy.
• The company's inefficient processes led to delays and unnecessary costs.