Definition
故障 (gùzhàng) is a formal noun meaning a malfunction, breakdown, or fault in machines, systems, or software. It is more technical and specific than 毛病 (máobìng), which is colloquial and can also refer to a personal flaw or illness. Unlike the verb 失灵 (shīlíng 'to malfunction'), 故障 is a noun, used in contexts like 'engine故障' or 'system故障'.
noun
malfunctionbreakdownfault (of machines, systems, software)
Easily confused
- 鼓掌gǔ zhǎngsound-aliketo applaud, to clap
Examples
- 故障。Fēijī qǐfēi qián fāxiàn le yí gè yǐnqíng gù zhàng.A malfunction was found in one of the engines before takeoff.
- 故障，。Zhège chéngxù yǒu gù zhàng, xūyào gēngxīn yíxià.This program has a bug; it needs an update.
- 故障，。Diàntī fāshēng le gù zhàng, wéixiū rényuán zhèngzài gǎn lái.The elevator broke down, and maintenance staff are on their way.
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