erratic operation

[/ɪˈrætɪk ˌɑːpəˈreɪʃən/]
noun phrasepl: erratic operations
operação irregular / funcionamento errático
1. Unpredictable or inconsistent performance or functioning of a machine, system, or device that does not work reliably or as expected
The printer's erratic operation frustrated the entire office staff.
O funcionamento errático da impressora frustrou toda a equipe do escritório.
2. Behavior or performance characterized by sudden changes, fluctuations, or lack of consistency
The car's erratic operation suggested an engine problem that needed immediate repair.
O funcionamento irregular do carro sugeriu um problema no motor que precisava de reparo imediato.
This term is commonly used in technical, industrial, and automotive contexts in both Brazil and the United States. In Brazil, 'funcionamento errático' is the preferred technical term in manuals and professional settings, while in the USA 'erratic operation' appears frequently in product warranties and repair documentation. The phrase reflects a shared understanding in modern technology-dependent cultures of the frustration caused by unreliable devices.
NYC Slang
wonky operation / acting up
Synonyms / Sinônimos
irregular operationinconsistent operationunpredictable behaviorunstable performancemalfunctioning
Antonyms / Antônimos
stable operationconsistent operationreliable operationsmooth operationnormal functioning

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
funcionamento errático / operação irregular
Standard usage in technical and everyday contexts
São Paulo
funcionamento irregular
Commonly used in industrial and technical settings
Rio de Janeiro
operação descontrolada
Alternative expression emphasizing loss of control
Portugal
funcionamento errático / operação irregular
Similar usage to Brazilian Portuguese with identical meaning

Related Words

malfunctionglitchbreakdownfaultdefectperformance

Related Idioms & Phrases

on the fritz
acting up
out of whack
going haywire
não funciona direito
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →