faulty
- 01 B1 Intermediate
not working correctly because of a mistake or a physical problem.
containing a defect or flaw that prevents proper functioning; often used for mechanical or electrical failures.
Simple“The fire was caused by faulty wiring in the old kitchen.”
In context“The technician determined that a faulty sensor was providing inaccurate data to the main control unit, causing the entire system to shut down.”
Usagecommonly used with nouns like 'wiring', 'logic', or 'equipment'.
- 02 C2 Proficiency
responsible for a mistake or doing something wrong.
culpable or deserving of blame for a specific error or transgression.
Simple“In the old story, the king was found faulty for the loss of the gold.”
In context“The magistrate deemed the merchant faulty in his dealings, though such phrasing has long since vanished from legal proceedings.”
Usagerarely found in modern speech; almost exclusively seen in historical texts.
Teacher's tipModern speakers use 'at fault' or 'guilty' instead; this sense is likely to confuse learners if encountered in literature.
From fault + -y.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.