Dysfunctional: meaning, definitions and examples

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dysfunctional

[ dɪsˈfʌŋkʃənl ]

^{Context #1}

family dynamics

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

Synonyms

malfunctioning, unstable

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}

organization

Not functioning correctly or harmoniously within an organization or system.

Synonyms

defective, inefficient

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

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 origin

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.