What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
slip
Example
I made a slip of the tongue and said the wrong name. [slip: noun]
Example
She slipped up and forgot to include the attachment in the email. [slipped: verb]
error
Example
There was an error in the calculation that led to the wrong result. [error: noun]
Example
He realized his error after reading the instructions carefully. [error: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Slip is more commonly used in everyday language than error. Slip is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while error is more formal and technical.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between slip and error?
Error is more formal and technical than slip. It is commonly used in academic or professional settings, while slip is more casual and informal.