German word

Missstand

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈmɪsˌʃtant/

Meaning

  • masculine nounproblem

Example

Wir müssen die Missstände in diesem Prozess beheben.

We must fix the problems in this process.

Illustration for Missstand (problem)

More examples

Die Untersuchung deckte einen gravierenden Missstand in der Klinik auf.

The investigation uncovered a serious problem at the clinic.

Core concept

A broken part of an institution or process that exposes a broader failure in how it is run.

Common phrases

  • einen Missstand beheben

    remedy a problem

  • struktureller Missstand

    structural problem

  • Missstand melden

    report a problem

Similar words

Problem: A difficult situation or issue that requires a solution or response.
Mangel: A state in which something necessary or required is insufficient.
Fehler: An incorrect action, method, or part of a system.
Schwachstelle: A weak point in a system or plan where problems are likely to arise.

Definition in German

Bezeichnung für einen festgestellten Mangel oder eine Unregelmäßigkeit in einer Organisation, einem Verfahren oder einer Regelung.

Word origin

The compound Missstand joins miss- in the sense of faulty or improper with Stand, a noun formed from the German root of stehen.

Usage tips

  • Missstand is more formal than the everyday word Problem and commonly appears in public, administrative, or political criticism.

Other meanings

  • abusenoun
  • deficiencynoun

Opposites

Related words

  • Missstandsmeldungproblem reportnoun
  • Missstandsbehebungproblem rectificationnoun

Word lists with this word