What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
error
Example
The error in the calculation led to incorrect results. [error: noun]
Example
She realized her error and corrected the code. [error: noun]
mistake
Example
I made a mistake by forgetting her birthday. [mistake: noun]
Example
He mistakenly thought the meeting was at 2 pm. [mistakenly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mistake is more commonly used than error in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and is more relatable to personal experiences.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between error and mistake?
Error is more formal than mistake, as it is often used in technical or scientific contexts and has a more neutral connotation.
