a clerical error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clerical error" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a mistake made by a clerical worker or in administrative duties. Example: The bank informed me that there was a delay in processing my loan due to a clerical error in my application form.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Sounds like a clerical error.

The New York Times

He blames a clerical error.

The Guardian - Sport

(A clerical error, he insisted).

The New York Times - Magazine

Probably just a clerical error.

The Guardian - Opinion

Blame it on a clerical error.

The Washington Post

"This is not just a clerical error.

The New York Times

It can only be a clerical error.

The Guardian - Sport

GWU blamed its goof on a clerical error.

The Washington Post

The resort insisted this was due to a clerical error.

The Guardian

His staff initially thought it was a clerical error.

The Washington Post

Trump staffers blamed the gift on a clerical error.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clerical error" when aiming for a neutral or slightly formal tone, especially in professional communications or reporting. It avoids blame and focuses on the nature of the mistake.

Common error

Avoid automatically attributing significant problems to "a clerical error" without proper investigation. Overusing this phrase can undermine trust and suggest a lack of accountability. Always verify and provide context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clerical error" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the object of a verb or preposition. It identifies a specific type of mistake made in an office or administrative setting. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clerical error" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes a mistake made during routine administrative or office tasks. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted, primarily in news and media, and formal business contexts. While it serves to explain or excuse mistakes, it's important to use it judiciously and avoid overusing it as a blanket explanation without proper investigation. Consider alternatives like "administrative mistake" or "data entry error" depending on the context. Proper usage ensures clarity and maintains accountability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an administrative mistake

Focuses on the administrative aspect of the error, rather than specifically clerical work.

a paperwork mistake

Highlights the error occurring in written documents or records.

a data entry error

Specifies the mistake as originating from incorrect data input.

an oversight in documentation

Emphasizes the neglect or failure to properly document something.

a filing mistake

Indicates the error occurred during the process of organizing and storing documents.

an error in record-keeping

Points to inaccuracies in maintaining official records.

a technical misstep

Broadens the scope to include errors in technical processes related to clerical work.

an inadvertent mistake

Highlights the unintentional nature of the error.

an unintentional slip

Suggests a minor, unplanned mistake.

a minor mistake

Downplays the severity of the error, portraying it as relatively insignificant.

FAQs

What does "a clerical error" mean?

A "clerical error" refers to a mistake typically made during routine office tasks such as data entry, record-keeping, or filing. It suggests an unintentional mistake in administrative processes.

How to use "a clerical error" in a sentence?

You can use "a clerical error" in a sentence like this: "The delay in processing my application was due to "a clerical error" in the system."

What are some alternatives to "a clerical error"?

Alternatives to "a clerical error" include "administrative mistake", "paperwork mistake", or "data entry error". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a clerical error" in formal communication?

Yes, "a clerical error" is generally appropriate for formal communication, particularly when explaining mistakes in a neutral and professional manner. However, ensure it is accurate and does not downplay significant issues.