dysfunctional
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A self-assured, naive young woman joins a dysfunctional theater company in Beryl Bainbridge’s darkly comic novel of mishaps and maturity.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026
Even as United have fallen short of expectations, Fernandes has delivered in what has often been a dysfunctional environment, which has now stabilised under interim boss Michael Carrick.
From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026
He justified this view by citing a dysfunctional banking system, a highly unstable currency, the absence of the rule of law guaranteeing private property, the failure of the centrally planned economy, and "completely dilapidated" infrastructure.
From Barron's • Mar. 21, 2026
Over time they can enter a dysfunctional condition called T cell exhaustion, where their ability to eliminate threats declines.
From Science Daily • Mar. 5, 2026
If we’re a messed up, dysfunctional family, I guess this can go down as our single functional moment.
From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman
![]()