I erred

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I erred" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to acknowledge a mistake or error that one has made. Example: "In my previous report, I erred in the calculations, and I apologize for any confusion it may have caused."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

"Maybe I erred.

The New York Times - Sports

"I erred a lot".

The New York Times - Sports

I erred by citing it in my column.

The New York Times

But sometimes I erred by ignoring my family; at other times I erred by ignoring my patients, with this on rare occasions resulting in their untimely death.

The New York Times

Correction: I erred in saying that Indonesia has no claim in the sea.

The Economist

(I erred recently in attributing the wrong gender to La Garde. J'en suis desole).

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

So I err on the side of safety".

The New York Times

As a result, I err in the other direction.

The New York Times

I tend in that direction, but I'm not sure I "err".

The Guardian - Film

If anything, I err on the side of obsequious," Humphrys told the new issue of Radio Times.

The Guardian

My curious (nosy) nature means I err on the side of worthy.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I erred" in formal contexts when acknowledging a mistake. It conveys a sense of responsibility and acknowledgment of the error.

Common error

Avoid using "I erred" in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "I was wrong" or "I made a mistake" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I erred" functions as a declarative statement where the speaker acknowledges and admits to having made a mistake. It is typically used in contexts where taking responsibility for an error is important. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and usability of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I erred" is a formal and direct way of admitting a mistake. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and most appropriately used in formal or professional settings, such as news reports or official statements, to convey responsibility and accountability. While versatile, the phrase should be used judiciously and considering the context. Simpler alternatives like "I made a mistake" are more suitable for casual conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I made a mistake

This is a direct and simple way of admitting an error, suitable for most contexts.

I was wrong

A straightforward admission of being incorrect in a statement or action.

I was in error

A slightly more formal and emphatic way of saying "I was wrong".

I was mistaken

Implies the error was due to a misunderstanding or incorrect assumption.

I committed an error

A more formal way of admitting a mistake, suitable for professional settings.

I made an error in judgment

Highlights a mistake in decision-making, often with significant consequences.

I was at fault

Admits responsibility for a mistake or negative outcome.

I slipped up

Suggests a minor error or oversight, often in a casual context.

I miscalculated

Specifically indicates an error in calculation or planning.

I goofed

Implies a silly or careless mistake, less formal than "I erred".

FAQs

What does "I erred" mean?

The phrase "I erred" means "I made a mistake" or "I was wrong". It's a formal way to admit an error.

When is it appropriate to use "I erred"?

"I erred" is most appropriate in formal writing or speech, such as official apologies, reports, or when addressing a serious issue.

What are some alternatives to "I erred"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "I made a mistake", "I was wrong", or "I was mistaken".

Is "I erred" too formal for everyday conversation?

Yes, "I erred" is generally considered too formal for everyday conversation. Simpler phrases are usually more suitable.