# dysfunction vs dysfunctional

> English confusable word pair

## The two words

### dysfunction
*noun · IPA /dɪsˈfʌŋk.ʃən/ · frequency rank #14,518*
A failure to function in an expected or complete manner. Usually refers to a disorder in a bodily organ (e.g. erectile dysfunction), a mental disorder, or the improper behavior of a social group.

### dysfunctional
*adjective · frequency rank #18,064*
Not performing its proper or intended function.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/vs/dysfunction-vs-dysfunctional