a fundamental mistake

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a fundamental mistake" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a significant or basic error in reasoning, judgment, or action. Example: "The decision to ignore the data was a fundamental mistake that cost the company millions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

This is a fundamental mistake.

The Guardian

It was a fundamental mistake.

The Guardian - Sport

You make a fundamental mistake.

The Guardian

That would be a fundamental mistake.

The Guardian

But in thinking this way, we make a fundamental mistake.

The Washington Post

"And I think that's a fundamental mistake in David's take on my work.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

The work, intended to be completed by 2017, will restore many original paint colours and features but will not correct a fundamental mistake in its design.

The Guardian

He said, 'Mr. Grillo, you are making a fundamental mistake.

The New Yorker

It was a fundamental mistake for a revolutionary," he said, directing his speech "to the Venezuelan people and the international public opinion".

The Guardian

Flanked by a Venezuelan flag and a portrait of Simón Bolívar, the South American liberator, Chávez said he had committed a "fundamental mistake" in not taking better care of his own health.

The Guardian

As O'Connor tells Dixon, the two "made a fundamental mistake" while pitching potential clients.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a fundamental mistake", ensure it accurately reflects the severity and foundational nature of the error. Avoid using it for minor or inconsequential errors.

Common error

Avoid using "a fundamental mistake" when a simpler term like "error" or "slip-up" would suffice. The phrase carries significant weight and should be reserved for substantial errors that impact the core of a process or decision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a fundamental mistake" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or subject complement in a sentence. It identifies a significant error that affects the core of a situation or process. Ludwig AI confirms this through its examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a fundamental mistake" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a significant error impacting the core of a process or decision. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples from reputable sources. While versatile, it's best reserved for describing substantial errors, as indicated by its frequent use in news, academic, and formal business contexts. Alternatives like "a critical error" or "a serious blunder" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the depth and impact of the mistake to maintain clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a critical error

Emphasizes the severity of the mistake, highlighting its potential consequences.

a serious blunder

Suggests a more careless or thoughtless mistake.

a grave miscalculation

Implies a significant error in planning or assessment.

a major oversight

Highlights the aspect of neglecting something important.

a profound misjudgment

Indicates a deep and consequential error in decision-making.

a basic flaw

Focuses on the inherent defect or weakness that caused the mistake.

a glaring mistake

Highlights the obviousness and easily noticed nature of the mistake.

a tactical error

Refers to a mistake made in a specific strategy or plan.

a strategic misstep

Emphasizes the error as a deviation from an overall plan or goal.

a costly oversight

Focuses on the financial or resource-related implications of the error.

FAQs

How can I use "a fundamental mistake" in a sentence?

You can use "a fundamental mistake" to describe a critical error that undermines the basis of something. For example, "Ignoring customer feedback was "a fundamental mistake" that led to declining sales."

What are some alternatives to saying "a fundamental mistake"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a critical error", "a serious blunder", or "a grave miscalculation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "a fundamental mistake" or "a basic mistake"?

"A fundamental mistake" suggests a deeper, more foundational error than "a basic mistake". Use ""a fundamental mistake"" when the error impacts core principles or assumptions.

Can "a fundamental mistake" be used in both formal and informal writing?

While "a fundamental mistake" is generally appropriate for both formal and informal writing, consider the audience and context. In very informal settings, simpler terms like "big mistake" or "major error" might be more suitable.