a catalogue of errors

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a catalogue of errors" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use the phrase when you want to describe a list or collection of mistakes, flaws, or problems. For example, you could say, "I have compiled a catalogue of errors that need to be corrected before the document is ready for review."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a catalogue of errors".

Independent

I was made a scapegoat for a catalogue of errors.

The Guardian

He claimed a "catalogue of errors" had been committed.

The Guardian

The report blames poor leadership for a catalogue of errors surrounding the bombing.

The Guardian

An inquiry at Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham blamed a catalogue of errors.

The Guardian

The past few years have been a catalogue of errors for Lil Wayne.

The Guardian - Music

"A catalogue of errors potentially led to her death," Dr Gill said.

The Guardian

"The whole trial was a catalogue of errors on all sides.

Independent

They concluded the Metropolitan police made a catalogue of errors that "more than minimally" contributed to Rigg's death.

The Guardian

Only such a catalogue of errors could have propelled Leung into the role of people's favourite, pundits say.

The Guardian

The jury found that the Metropolitan police made a catalogue of errors which "more than minimally" contributed to Rigg's death.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a catalogue of errors" when you want to emphasize the numerous and varied nature of mistakes, especially in situations where accountability is important.

Common error

While "a catalogue of errors" is effective, avoid using it repeatedly in a single document. Vary your language by using synonyms like "a series of mistakes" or "a string of blunders" to keep your writing engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a catalogue of errors" functions as a noun phrase that describes a collection or series of mistakes. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. It serves to highlight the quantity and variety of errors in a particular situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a catalogue of errors" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a series of mistakes or failures. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase conveys criticism or concern regarding numerous errors. While generally neutral to formal, its specific register depends on context. To maintain engaging writing, consider using synonyms like "a series of mistakes" or "a string of blunders". The phrase's effectiveness lies in its ability to emphasize the scale and variety of errors, making it suitable for situations where accountability is key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a series of blunders

Replaces "catalogue of errors" with more informal synonyms highlighting a sequence of mistakes.

a string of mistakes

Focuses on the sequential nature of errors, using "string" instead of "catalogue".

a collection of failures

Replaces "errors" with "failures", suggesting a more significant level of breakdown.

a multitude of faults

Emphasizes the large number of issues using "multitude" and replaces "errors" with "faults".

a chapter of mishaps

Presents the errors as part of a larger narrative, using "chapter" and "mishaps" to soften the tone.

a compilation of oversights

Suggests errors are due to negligence or inattention, using "compilation" and "oversights".

an inventory of deficiencies

Highlights a structured list of shortcomings or inadequacies, using "inventory" and "deficiencies".

a procession of mistakes

Conveys the ongoing nature of the errors as if they were part of a parade, replacing "catalogue" with "procession".

a laundry list of problems

Emphasizes the extensive and potentially overwhelming nature of the problems, using "laundry list".

a parade of failures

Focuses on a series of successive failures, emphasizing their continuous and perhaps public nature.

FAQs

How can I use "a catalogue of errors" in a sentence?

You can use "a catalogue of errors" to describe a situation where many mistakes have occurred. For example: "The investigation revealed "a catalogue of errors" in the company's accounting practices."

What's a more formal way to say "a catalogue of errors"?

A more formal alternative to "a catalogue of errors" is "an inventory of deficiencies", which suggests a structured list of shortcomings.

What can I say instead of "a catalogue of errors" to sound less harsh?

To soften the impact, you could use phrases like "a series of mishaps" or "a chapter of mishaps". These options downplay the severity of the mistakes.

Is it appropriate to use "a catalogue of errors" in a professional setting?

Yes, "a catalogue of errors" is appropriate in professional contexts when you need to describe a series of mistakes factually. However, consider the tone and audience to ensure it doesn't come across as overly critical. Consider using phrases such as "a series of blunders" or "a string of mistakes".