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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun error differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of error are blunder, lapse, mistake, and slip. While all these words mean "a departure from what is true, right, or proper," error suggests the existence of a standard or guide and a straying from the right course through failure to make effective use of this.

procedural errors

When would blunder be a good substitute for error?

While the synonyms blunder and error are close in meaning, blunder regularly imputes stupidity or ignorance as a cause and connotes some degree of blame.

diplomatic blunders

When can lapse be used instead of error?

The words lapse and error are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, lapse stresses forgetfulness, weakness, or inattention as a cause.

a lapse in judgment

When is it sensible to use mistake instead of error?

In some situations, the words mistake and error are roughly equivalent. However, mistake implies misconception or inadvertence and usually expresses less criticism than error.

dialed the wrong number by mistake

When could slip be used to replace error?

Although the words slip and error have much in common, slip stresses inadvertence or accident and applies especially to trivial but embarrassing mistakes.

a slip of the tongue

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of error Americans were also divided over what their separation means for the country, according to the survey, which has a margin of error of 2.1 percentage points. Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 6 June 2025 Of course, if a prominent individual in government with conservative or even reactionary views indicates their displeasure with Trump, that’s a signal to the Democratic Party that the center can hold, that a fanciful abundance of swing voters can be yet persuaded of the error of their ways. Jessica Winter, New Yorker, 6 June 2025 At least some of the errors produced by his code can be traced to using older versions of OpenAI models available through the VA — models not capable of solving complex tasks, according to the experts consulted by ProPublica. Brandon Roberts, ProPublica, 6 June 2025 Only one major-league third baseman, the San Diego Padres’ Manny Machado, has more errors than Muncy’s eight through his first 49 games of the season. Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 27 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for error
Recent Examples of Synonyms for error
Noun
  • Choosing smoothies low in protein and fiber, adding sugary ingredients to your smoothie, and using low-calorie smoothies as meal replacements are just some of the smoothie mistakes that could be sabotaging your weight loss efforts.
    Jillian Kubala, Health, 3 June 2025
  • The teenager from India, under pressure throughout much of the game, capitalized on a rare mistake from the Norwegian veteran to seize victory.
    Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 June 2025
Noun
  • But planted within that picture was a glimmer of hope — or maybe delusion — for Sabres fans.
    Matthew Fairburn, New York Times, 22 May 2025
  • Researchers noted the positive effects of ecstatic epilepsy and synthesized fifty-three theoretical models of delusion.
    Rafil Kroll-Zaidi, Harpers Magazine, 22 May 2025
Noun
  • Viewers speculated whether this was a blunder, power play or something else.
    Rachel Treisman, NPR, 27 May 2025
  • Many of the nation’s biggest military blunders occurred because there wasn’t enough diversity in the armed forces.
    John Blake, CNN Money, 26 May 2025
Noun
  • Those participating in races can receive up to a $250 fine and/or up to 30 days in jail on the first violation, up to a $500 fine and/or up to 60 days in jail for the second violation, and up to a $1,000 fine and/or and up to six months in jail for a third.
    Alecia Taylor, Kansas City Star, 7 June 2025
  • Most violations were corrected during the inspection.
    Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 6 June 2025
Noun
  • The entire space was stunned by the illusion of water gushing and animals moving toward the audience.
    Raechal Shewfelt, EW.com, 28 May 2025
  • Donald Trump started selling the illusion of exclusivity half a century ago.
    Ian Crouch, New Yorker, 27 May 2025
Noun
  • Miami Herald 305-376-3446 Jay Weaver writes about federal crime at the crossroads of South Florida and Latin America.
    Jay Weaver, Miami Herald, 30 May 2025
  • The season ends with Coop driving away from Jack’s house, rejecting the office life and doubling down on crime.
    Barry Levitt, Time, 30 May 2025
Noun
  • Historically, fonio carries deep reverence and myth.
    Osayi Endolyn, Bon Appetit Magazine, 27 May 2025
  • There are several myths that certain foods are bad for thyroid function, including gluten and cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, brussels sprouts, and cauliflower).
    Patty Weasler, Verywell Health, 27 May 2025
Noun
  • And the sin that Crespo supposedly committed to warrant banishment?
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 19 May 2025
  • For his part, Misch has not come close to showing remorse nor confessing his sins.
    Nate Gartrell, Mercury News, 14 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Error.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/error. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

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