Flawed

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/flɔːd/ (British English), /flɑːd/ (American English)

Definitions

• Adjective: Having imperfections, faults, or defects that reduce quality, functionality, or value.
• Adjective: Containing flaws in a moral or psychological sense.

Usage Examples

• "The design of the product was flawed, causing it to malfunction after a few uses."
• "Despite his many strengths, his judgment was often flawed."
• "The report was flawed with incorrect data, leading to misleading conclusions."

Etymology

The word "flawed" originates from Middle English "flawen" meaning "to break" or "to become defective." It is derived from the Old Norse "flaga," meaning "fragment" or "piece," and has evolved over time to refer to imperfections or faults in various contexts, particularly in objects or character traits.

Synonyms

• Defective
• Imperfect
• Blemished
• Faulty
• Damaged
• Inadequate
• Substandard

Antonyms

• Flawless
• Perfect
• Impeccable
• Unblemished
• Excellent
• Superior

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "flawed" is fairly consistent, though regional accents can affect the quality of the "a" sound. In some accents, particularly those in the Southern United States, the vowel sound may be more pronounced, giving it a more distinct "ah" sound.

Historical Usage

The word "flawed" was first used in the late 14th century to describe physical defects in objects and materials. It expanded to describe moral or personal imperfections in the 16th century. Over time, "flawed" became a commonly used term in literature, psychology, and everyday speech to refer to various types of imperfections.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the concept of being "flawed" is associated with imperfection or moral failing. However, in some cultural contexts, flaws are seen as a part of the human experience. For example, the Japanese concept of "wabi-sabi" embraces imperfections and transience, finding beauty in the flawed nature of things. In Western culture, flaws are often viewed as negative attributes that need correction or improvement.

More Information

The word "flawed" carries a broad range of meanings, from physical defects to personal shortcomings. It is used in various contexts, including describing products, individuals, and even abstract concepts like logic or reasoning. While often seen negatively, it also serves as a reminder of the inherent imperfections in life, art, and human nature. In recent times, the term has gained traction in discussions about self-acceptance, emphasizing that flaws do not define a person's worth.