a mistake or inaccuracy, the state or condition of being wrong in conduct or judgment

to err is human, in error, to see the error of one's ways

trial and error, human error, margin of error

Formal and Informal Expressions of error

In different contexts, you can replace 'error' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'mistake, inaccuracy' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'blunder, screw-up' is a commonplace synonym.

error: Explore its Definition & Usage

error Definition

1a mistake or inaccuracy
2the state or condition of being wrong in conduct or judgment

Using error: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "error" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
There was an error in the calculation.
Example
The report contains several errors.
Example
It was an error of judgment to trust him.
Example
The referee made a serious error.

error Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for error

Antonyms for error

Idioms Using error

to err is human
it is natural for people to make mistakes
Example
Don't be too hard on yourself. To err is human, after all.
in error
by mistake or accident
Example
I received this package in error.
to see the error of one's ways
to realize that one has been wrong and to change one's behavior
Example
After losing his job, he saw the error of his ways and started taking responsibility for his actions.

Phrases with error

trial and error
a method of achieving something by trying different ways until the correct one is found
Example
She learned how to cook through trial and error.
human error
a mistake made by a person rather than being caused by a machine or system
Example
The accident was caused by human error.
margin of error
the amount by which a result might differ from the true value
Example
The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percent.

Origins of error

from Latin 'error', meaning 'wandering, straying, deviation'

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Summary: error in Brief

The term 'error' [ˈerər] refers to a mistake or inaccuracy, as well as the state of being wrong in conduct or judgment. It can refer to anything from a calculation mistake to a serious error of judgment. Common phrases include 'trial and error,' 'human error,' and 'margin of error.' The idiom 'to err is human' acknowledges that making mistakes is natural, while 'to see the error of one's ways' means to realize one has been wrong and change their behavior.