adj
Uncommon
flawed
flawd
Flawed (adj) means having a defect or imperfection. Example: “It was a flawed argument from the start.”
adj
1
Having a defect or imperfection.
"Flawed diamonds are generally not used in jewellery."
"It was a flawed argument from the start."
"Even the best system is flawed in some way."
"His design for a perpetual motion machine is flawed because water does not flow uphill."
"The vase was flawed, with a tiny crack running along its base."
"Yet he was correct on every point, meaning that the Plan was deeply flawed from the start."
— David Clough, The long road that led to Beeching (2023)
How to use flawed
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishContaining a fault or weakness.
Common pairings
deeply flawed
fatally flawed
flawed logic
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more flawed
- Superlative
- most flawed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
It was a _____ argument from the start.
Etymology
From "flaw" + "-ed."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for flawed
See all rhymes for flawed →Frequently asked questions
What does “flawed” mean?
The word “flawed” means having a defect or imperfection. In plain terms, containing a fault or weakness.
How do you pronounce “flawed”?
“Flawed” is pronounced flawd (/flɔːd/ in IPA).
How do you use “flawed” in a sentence?
Here is “flawed” used in a sentence: “It was a flawed argument from the start.”
What part of speech is “flawed”?
“Flawed” is an adjective.
Is “flawed” a common word?
“Flawed” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between flawed and defective?
Flawed describes something that has a defect or imperfection but may still function or be usable, such as a flawed argument or a flawed plan. Defective often implies a more serious fault that prevents something from working properly, such as a defective product.
Can flawed be used to describe a person's character?
Yes, flawed is commonly used to describe a person's character or personality, meaning they have imperfections or weaknesses, as in 'a deeply flawed but sympathetic character.' This usage is especially common in discussions of fiction and storytelling.
Is flawed a negative word?
Flawed generally carries a negative connotation since it points out an imperfection or defect, but it is often used in a measured, descriptive way rather than as a harsh criticism, such as calling a good plan 'flawed but workable.'
