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Imperfect: meaning, definitions and examples

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imperfect

 

[ɪmˈpərfɪkt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

grammar

Not perfect; faulty or incomplete.

Synonyms

defective, flawed, incomplete.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
imperfect

This term is used when something is not perfect or has minor issues but is still functional or acceptable.

  • Her singing was imperfect but heartfelt.
  • We had an imperfect plan, but it worked out in the end.
flawed

This word refers to something that has inherent problems or imperfections but might still have value. It can be used for objects, ideas, or even people.

  • The diamond was beautiful but slightly flawed.
  • His argument was flawed, but he made some good points.
defective

Use this word to describe something that is not working correctly or has major problems. It often has a negative connotation.

  • The product was defective and had to be returned.
  • A defective car part caused the engine to fail.
incomplete

This term is suitable when something is missing parts or is not done yet.

  • Her work was incomplete and needed more effort.
  • The jigsaw puzzle is still incomplete.

Examples of usage

  • The painting was beautiful, but there were some imperfections in the details.
  • His plan was good, but it had some imperfections that needed to be addressed.
Context #2 | Noun

psychology

A belief or attitude that one is flawed in a specific way.

Synonyms

defect, flaw, shortcoming.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
imperfect

This word is used to describe something that is not perfect, but not necessarily in a negative way. It implies that there is room for improvement.

  • Her technique is imperfect, but she is improving with practice
  • The painting was beautiful despite its imperfect symmetry
flaw

This word denotes a noticeable problem or imperfection, either in a thing or a person's character. It often has a negative connotation.

  • The vase has a flaw that makes it less valuable
  • Despite his many talents, his inability to work in a team is a serious flaw
defect

Use this in situations where there is a problem or fault that hinders normal functioning. Typically used in technical or serious contexts.

  • The car had a manufacturing defect that caused the engine to overheat
  • There was a defect in the software that caused it to crash frequently
shortcoming

Describes a failure or deficiency in character, ability, or situation. It often implies that something does not meet expected standards.

  • His main shortcoming is his lack of patience
  • The project's shortcomings were evident in the final presentation

Examples of usage

  • She struggled with feelings of imperfection and inadequacy.
  • His perfectionism often stemmed from a deep-seated fear of imperfection.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'imperfect' comes from the Latin 'imperfectus', meaning 'not finished' or 'incomplete'.
  • In Middle English, the word evolved to describe things that lack perfection or completeness.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers often discuss the concept of perfection versus imperfection to explore human nature and existence.
  • In some philosophical traditions, imperfection is seen as essential for growth and creativity.

Art

  • Many artists embrace imperfection, believing that flaws add uniqueness and character to their work.
  • Japanese art has a principle called 'wabi-sabi', which finds beauty in imperfection and the natural cycle of growth and decay.

Psychology

  • The fear of imperfection can lead to conditions like anxiety and perfectionism, where individuals strive for unattainable standards.
  • Acceptance of imperfection is linked to better mental health and self-compassion.

Pop Culture

  • Numerous songs and movies celebrate the idea of being imperfect, highlighting that flaws make us relatable and human.
  • Reality TV often showcases everyday situations where people deal with their imperfections, driving home the message that it's okay to be flawed.

Translations

Translations of the word "imperfect" in other languages:

🇵🇹 imperfeito

🇮🇳 अपूर्ण

🇩🇪 unvollkommen

🇮🇩 tidak sempurna

🇺🇦 недосконалий

🇵🇱 niedoskonały

🇯🇵 不完全

🇫🇷 imparfait

🇪🇸 imperfecto

🇹🇷 kusurlu

🇰🇷 불완전한

🇸🇦 غير كامل

🇨🇿 nedokonalý

🇸🇰 nedokonalý

🇨🇳 不完美的

🇸🇮 nepopoln

🇮🇸 ófullkominn

🇰🇿 жетілмеген

🇬🇪 არასრულყოფილი

🇦🇿 qüsurlu

🇲🇽 imperfecto

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,239 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.