As we learn in past post about what is defects and impact of defect in process. So in the series of how to measure the defects, we need three methods to measure defect level and impact of defect. and those are link with defect vs defective concept.
- The 1st method is Process Yield. We learn that in our post, What is Process Yield? it is very important concept for Quality Engineer.
- The 2nd method is PPM calculation. This also we learn in past post, PPM | the way of measuring defects.
- Now the 3rd one is DPU and DPMO, The complete concept of DPU and DPMO you will learn.
So, for all the above method, it is very important to know about what is Defect? and What is Defective?. These terms is helpful in measurement of defect level in manufacturing processes.
So in this post you will learn defect vs defective with the help of examples.
What is mean by defect?
A defect occurs during any process when the outcome of the process is not the expected outcome.
For example, if you manufacture a car then scratches on the car are one defect. Also dent on car is one defect.
What is defective?
There can, however, be multiple opportunities for a defect.
Additionally, an item is only defective when it is considered unacceptable due to one or more defects.
Now, you may confuse about what is exactly the defect opportunity means.
What is defect opportunity?
Let’s take an example, so our concept of defect and defective will clear easily,
Assume that we are the car manufacturer, so our final outcome will be brand new car.
So as we know in what is defect, then we say that in our final product car there is defects.

Defects are
- scratches on front glass
- Faulty head light
- Dent on door
- Fuel tank open

Now from above example, We say that Car no. 2 having 2 defects. And car no. 7 having 4 defects. Also we have 2 defective vehicles (No. 2 & 7) having the respective 2 or 4 defects in each car.
Difference between defect and defective
Defect | Defective |
---|---|
Not the expected outcome. | It is totally unacceptable for use. |
Not expected outcome due to non-conformity in the product. | It is considered unacceptable due to one or more defects. |
Example, – Scratch – Dent – Damage – Specification not ok. | Example, – Consider we have one part that has one or many defects, that product is considered defective. |