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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'to malfunction' with 失灵 (shīlíng)

    Degree & Intensity
    Description & Modification

    Structure

    Subject + 失灵

    Explanation

    失灵 (shīlíng) means "to malfunction" or "to fail," describing when a system, device, or mechanism stops working properly. It is commonly used with machines, equipment, or technical systems.

    Examples

    • 这台电梯又失灵了，我们只能走楼梯。

      Zhè tái diàntī yòu shīlíng le, wǒmen zhǐ néng zǒu lóutī.

      This elevator has broken down again; we can only take the stairs.

    • 刹车失灵是非常危险的事情。

      Shāchē shīlíng shì fēicháng wēixiǎn de shìqíng.

      Brake failure is an extremely dangerous thing.

    • 空调失灵了，屋子里热得受不了。

      Kōngtiáo shīlíng le, wūzi lǐ rè de shòubùliǎo.

      The air conditioning has malfunctioned; it's unbearably hot in the room.

    Expressing 'to malfunction' with 失灵 (shīlíng) | Chinese Grammar