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Dysfunctional: meaning, definitions and examples

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dysfunctional

 

[dɪsˈfʌŋkʃənl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

family dynamics

Not operating normally or properly within a family or social group, often causing conflict or tension.

Synonyms

malfunctioning, unstable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dysfunctional

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.
malfunctioning

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.
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.

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

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.
Context #2 | Adjective

organization

Not functioning correctly or harmoniously within an organization or system.

Synonyms

defective, inefficient.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

  • 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.
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.

  • 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.
inefficient

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.

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "dysfunctional" in other languages:

🇵🇹 disfuncional

🇮🇳 विकारग्रस्त

🇩🇪 dysfunktional

🇮🇩 tidak berfungsi

🇺🇦 дисфункціональний

🇵🇱 dysfunkcyjny

🇯🇵 機能不全の

🇫🇷 dysfonctionnel

🇪🇸 disfuncional

🇹🇷 işlevsiz

🇰🇷 기능 장애의

🇸🇦 معطل

🇨🇿 dysfunkční

🇸🇰 dysfunkčný

🇨🇳 功能障碍的

🇸🇮 disfunkcionalen

🇮🇸 óvirkur

🇰🇿 дисфункционалды

🇬🇪 დისფუნქციური

🇦🇿 disfunksional

🇲🇽 disfuncional

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,204, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.