Word
faulty
US/ˈfɔɫti/
UK/fˈɒlti/
Definitions
01broken or defective
B1 · Intermediate
adj. not working correctly because of a mistake or a physical problem.
adj. containing a defect or flaw that prevents proper functioning; often used for mechanical or electrical failures.
“The fire was caused by faulty wiring in the old kitchen.”
“The technician determined that a faulty sensor was providing inaccurate data to the main control unit, causing the entire system to shut down.”
Usage
commonly used with nouns like 'wiring', 'logic', or 'equipment'.
Antonyms
02guilty or at fault
C2 · Proficiency Archaic
adj. responsible for a mistake or doing something wrong.
adj. culpable or deserving of blame for a specific error or transgression.
“In the old story, the king was found faulty for the loss of the gold.”
“The magistrate deemed the merchant faulty in his dealings, though such phrasing has long since vanished from legal proceedings.”
Usage
rarely found in modern speech; almost exclusively seen in historical texts.
Teaching tip
Modern speakers use 'at fault' or 'guilty' instead; this sense is likely to confuse learners if encountered in literature.
Synonyms
Etymology
From fault + -y.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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