a deliberate mistake

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a deliberate mistake" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an error that was made intentionally, often for a specific purpose or effect. Example: "The author included a deliberate mistake in the text to provoke thought and discussion among readers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Did I ever make a deliberate mistake, did I ever deliberately transform a negative into a positive?

The New York Times

Incidentally, as explained here, this was a deliberate mistake on behalf of the show's producers.

The Guardian - Sport

"This was a deliberate mistake," he said of the decision to invade.

The Guardian

So: do we treat this as a coincidence or a deliberate mistake, or just a mistake?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Unlike building coal fired power stations in the past, it would be a deliberate mistake.

The Guardian - Opinion

She had a terrific figure and knew how to wear clothes, but there was always a deliberate mistake, a continuous source of amusement to us both.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Towards the end of his set, Skinner gave an inkling as to the motivation behind the show, when he told a story about weaving the same deliberate mistake into one of his sets for 40 nights running, because it got a laugh.

Independent

I see a few of you noticed my deliberate mistake before... typing Finn instead of Du Plessis.

BBC

The plot itself was compromised from the start, however, as the Russian attached a note to the blueprint warning the Iranians of the deliberate mistake.

The Guardian

That decision became my Deliberate Mistake, and it was the best mistake I ever made.

The New York Times

"So each rug contains 'The Deliberate Mistake.' " My father was almost as enigmatic as the rugs.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a deliberate mistake" when you want to emphasize the intentionality behind an error, often for a specific effect or purpose, such as creating humor, provoking thought, or testing boundaries.

Common error

Avoid using "a deliberate mistake" when describing accidental or unintentional errors. The key aspect of this phrase is the conscious decision to make the mistake.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a deliberate mistake" functions as a noun phrase. According to Ludwig, it is correct and usable in written English. It describes an error that was made intentionally, often for a specific purpose or effect.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a deliberate mistake" is grammatically sound and used to describe an intentional error, often made for a specific reason. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While it's not extremely common, occurring in various contexts, mainly in News & Media. The key element of this expression is that the error is made consciously, setting it apart from unintentional errors. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates the intentionality behind the mistake. Consider alternatives like "an intentional error" or "a purposeful error" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an intentional error

Emphasizes the intention behind the error, similar to "a deliberate mistake".

a purposeful error

Highlights that the error was made with a specific purpose in mind.

a calculated error

Suggests the error was carefully planned, implying a higher degree of intention.

an intended fault

Focuses on the intentional nature of the fault or flaw.

a strategic blunder

Indicates the mistake was part of a larger strategy, though still an error.

a knowing error

Highlights that the person making the error was aware of it at the time.

a planned imperfection

Emphasizes that imperfection was intentionally introduced.

a tactical misstep

Indicates the error was part of a tactic, though still a misstep.

a willful error

Highlights the voluntary nature of the error.

a designed flaw

Suggests a deliberate decision to include a flaw.

FAQs

How can "a deliberate mistake" be used in writing?

You can use "a deliberate mistake" to describe an error made intentionally, often to create a specific effect, such as adding authenticity, humor, or prompting audience engagement.

What's a good substitute for "a deliberate mistake"?

Alternatives include "an intentional error", "a purposeful error", or "a calculated error", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to make "a deliberate mistake"?

No, making "a deliberate mistake" isn't always negative. It can be used strategically to achieve a particular outcome, like testing limits or creating a desired effect. For example, a comedian might use "a deliberate mistake" in their routine to get a laugh.

What is the difference between "a mistake" and "a deliberate mistake"?

A "mistake" is an unintentional error, while "a deliberate mistake" is an error made on purpose. The intention behind the action is the key distinction.