Dysfunctional Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dysfunctional
[dษชsหfสลkสษnl ]
Definitions
family dynamics
Not operating normally or properly within a family or social group, often causing conflict or tension.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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dysfunctional |
Used to describe systems, relationships, or organizations that are not working properly or as intended.
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malfunctioning |
Used for mechanical or electronic systems that are not operating correctly. It's often used in technical or engineering contexts.
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unstable |
Describes something that is prone to change, not steady, or not reliable. It can be used for objects, systems, or even people's emotions.
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Examples of usage
- The dysfunctional family struggled to communicate effectively.
- Her dysfunctional relationship with her parents led to feelings of isolation.
- The dysfunctional team was unable to work together cohesively.
organization
Not functioning correctly or harmoniously within an organization or system.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
dysfunctional |
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.
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defective |
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.
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inefficient |
Describes a process, system, or person that does not use time, resources, or energy effectively. Often used in business, technical, and organizational contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The dysfunctional company experienced a high turnover rate.
- The dysfunctional government struggled to pass legislation.
- The dysfunctional team failed to meet their targets.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Dysfunctional families often exhibit unhealthy patterns of behavior, leading to issues like anxiety and depression in members.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy often targets dysfunctional thought patterns to help individuals improve their mental health.
- Understanding psychological dysfunction is crucial in therapy to help people create healthier relationships.
Literature
- Many modern novels explore dysfunctional relationships as a central theme, illustrating complex family dynamics.
- Authors like John Green and Jodi Picoult frequently depict characters navigating their personal challenges within dysfunctional backgrounds.
- Dysfunctional settings in literature often reflect societal issues, creating a mirror to real-life conflicts.
Pop Culture
- Television shows like 'Breaking Bad' and 'This Is Us' highlight dysfunctional family dynamics and their impact on real life.
- Reality TV often showcases dysfunctional relationships as it creates drama and viewer engagement.
- The term has become popular in memes and social media to humorously describe chaotic situations in daily life.
Science
- In biology, 'dysfunctional' can describe organs or systems that do not perform their expected roles, affecting overall health.
- Studies in neuroscience explore how dysfunctional brain pathways can contribute to mental health disorders.
- Pharmaceutical research often aims to restore function in dysfunctional bodily systems through medication.
Origin of 'dysfunctional'
Main points about word origin
- The word combines the prefix 'dys-', meaning bad or difficult, with 'functional', which refers to how something works.
- 'Dysfunctional' first appeared in English in the mid-20th century, primarily in psychological contexts.
- In medical language, 'dys-' often describes conditions or failures, such as 'dyslexia' for difficulties in reading.
The word 'dysfunctional' originated from the prefix 'dys-' meaning 'bad' or 'abnormal' and the word 'functional' meaning 'operating properly'. It first appeared in the mid-20th century in the context of psychology and sociology to describe relationships, families, or systems that were not working effectively. Over time, 'dysfunctional' has become a commonly used term to describe situations where things are not functioning as they should.
See also: dysfunction, functional, functionality, functionally, functionaries, functionary, functioning, functions, malfunction, malfunctions, misfunction, multifunctional, multifunctionality, nonfunctional, perfunctory.