"defect" vs "flaw"

Question

"defect" vs "flaw"

Both 'defect' and 'flaw' are correct terms used to describe imperfections or faults in something. They are interchangeable in many contexts, but 'defect' is often associated with technical or manufacturing issues, while 'flaw' is more commonly used in a broader sense to describe any kind of imperfection.

Last Updated: March 24, 2024

You can use 'defect' to refer to a fault or imperfection in something, especially in technical or manufacturing contexts. It is often associated with issues that affect the functionality or quality of a product.

Examples:

The software had a defect that caused it to crash frequently.
The car was recalled due to a defect in the airbag system.
The inspector found a defect in the manufacturing process that needed to be addressed.
The defect in the design led to structural weaknesses in the building.
The defect in the material caused the product to break easily.

Alternatives:

fault
imperfection
issue
problem
flaw

You can use 'flaw' to refer to a fault or imperfection in something, in a broader sense beyond technical or manufacturing contexts. It is often used to describe any kind of imperfection or deficiency.

Examples:

Her argument had a flaw that weakened its credibility.
The painting was beautiful, but it had a flaw in the corner.
Despite his talent, he had a flaw in his technique.
The flaw in the plan became evident during the implementation.
The flaw in the diamond reduced its value significantly.

Alternatives:

defect
imperfection
issue
problem
weakness

Answer 1

defect

The term 'defect' is correct and commonly used to describe imperfections or faults, especially in technical or manufacturing contexts.

Answer 2

flaw

The term 'flaw' is correct and commonly used to describe imperfections or faults, especially in a broader sense beyond technical or manufacturing contexts.

"defect" vs "flaw"

defect

flaw

Related Comparisons