I made an error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I made an error" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when acknowledging a mistake you have made in a situation, whether in a formal or informal context. Example: "I apologize for the confusion; I made an error in the calculations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

"I made an error on that one.

The New York Times - Sports

"I accept I made an error.

The Guardian

I made an error of judgment.

The New York Times

Maybe I made an error in that regard".

The Guardian - Sport

"I made an error in judgment," Mr. Astafan said, "but I'm not a thief".

The New York Times

Francisco, who is originally from the Dominican Republic, told the Guardian: "I recognize that I made an error.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

"That's what I think when I make an error," Mora said.

The New York Times - Sports

"I understand if I make an error, people will start saying, 'You should move over there,' " Jeter said.

The New York Times - Sports

The consequences: I was afraid of the consequences; maybe I have made an error, made the wrong assessment.

BMC Medical Education

"In November of last year it became apparent that I had made an error in the appointment process and I accepted her resignation," he added.

Independent

And I just made an error.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal contexts, follow "I made an error" with an apology and a commitment to prevent similar errors in the future.

Common error

Avoid simply stating "I made an error" without providing context. Readers need to understand the nature and consequences of the error to fully grasp your message and intentions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I made an error" serves as a direct statement of acknowledgement of a mistake or fault. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for both formal and informal communication. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate this phrase is often followed by an explanation or apology.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

4%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I made an error" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase for acknowledging a mistake. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and usability of this expression. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts, with a neutral register suitable for various professional settings. When using this phrase, it's best practice to provide specific details about the error and express a commitment to rectify it. While alternatives like "I was mistaken" or "I committed a mistake" exist, "I made an error" offers a direct and clear way to admit fault.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I committed a mistake

Formally acknowledges a mistake, interchangeable in many contexts with "I made an error".

I was incorrect

A direct statement of being wrong, often used in formal settings.

I was mistaken

Simple acknowledgement of being wrong, omitting specifics about the error.

I was wrong

Simple and direct admission of fault.

I miscalculated

Specifically refers to errors in calculation or planning.

My judgment was faulty

Focuses on the flawed decision-making process leading to the error.

I slipped up

Informal way of admitting a minor error or oversight.

I blundered

Suggests a significant and often clumsy error.

I dropped the ball

Idiomatic expression implying failure to fulfill a responsibility.

I goofed

Very informal; suggests a silly or careless error.

FAQs

How to use "I made an error" in a sentence?

You can use "I made an error" to acknowledge a mistake you've made. For example: "I apologize for the incorrect information; "I made an error" in my previous email."

What can I say instead of "I made an error"?

You can use alternatives like "I was mistaken", "I committed a mistake", or "I was wrong" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "I made an error" or "I did an error"?

"I made an error" is the correct and idiomatic expression. "I did an error" is not grammatically correct in standard English.

What's the difference between "I made an error" and "It was an error on my part"?

"I made an error" is a direct and personal acknowledgement of fault. "It was an error on my part" is slightly more distanced but still accepts responsibility. The choice depends on the desired tone and emphasis.