Grammar fix

a fundamental flaw

basic defect

a very basic or central weakness or problem in something, especially one that affects its whole structure or purpose.

collocationC1occasional

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

There is a fundamental flaw in the way the new system processes data.study
In my opinion, the proposal has a fundamental flaw because it doesn't consider the needs of people living in rural areas.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: a fundamental flaw (in something)

WrongThe argument has a fundamental flaw on it.

RightThe argument has a fundamental flaw in it.

'A flaw IN something', not 'on'.

Patterna fundamental flaw (in something)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff The plan possesses a fundamental flaw in its underlying design.

Natural There's a fundamental flaw in the plan.

'Possesses a flaw' for an abstract thing sounds bookish; natives say 'there's a flaw in'.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

a fundamental flaw in
the argumentthe designthe logicthe system

Don't confuse it

Unlike 'a minor flaw' or 'a small flaw', which refer to less important problems, 'a fundamental flaw' means the problem is so basic that it undermines the whole thing.

Try it in Daily Speak →