a gross error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a gross error" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant mistake or blunder, often in a formal or serious context. Example: "The report contained a gross error that misrepresented the data, leading to incorrect conclusions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

He called Dr. Raveché's salary a "gross error".

The New York Times

This assumption was, in their opinion, a gross error.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"There is still time to correct what would be such a gross error".

The New York Times

It is a gross error of judgment and must be reversed".

The Guardian

But it is a gross error to equate the importance of the memorial with its square footage.

The New York Times

This was the third game in a row in which one player or the other has made a gross error.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

This was an gross error from a seasoned blogger, and we should have been more on top of it".

TechCrunch

"We made a really gross error of judgement," he said.

Independent

"To speak of 'Tolstoyism,' " he wrote in a letter, "to seek guidance, to inquire about my solution of questions, is a great and gross error".

The New Yorker

In our speech databases, we find a high variability in the gross error between different speech files but a low variability in the performance of the different algorithms on the individual speech files.

EURASIP Journal on Audio, Speech, and Music Processing

It will then, of course, work correctly; and this method of adjustment is easier to effect as well as being more accurate than the use of a tiny compass, liable to gross error through stray magnetic field.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a gross error", ensure the context warrants the strong language. This phrase is suitable for formal reports, critical analyses, or situations where the magnitude of the mistake is significant.

Common error

Avoid using "a gross error" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "a big mistake" or "a major slip-up" are more appropriate for everyday contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a gross error" functions as a noun phrase, specifically as a subject complement or object. It identifies or describes something that is considered a substantial mistake or blunder. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is considered correct in the English language.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

28%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a gross error" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for denoting a significant mistake. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and utility in English writing. While it's appropriate for formal and analytical contexts, it is less suitable for informal settings. When employing this phrase, ensure the gravity of the situation warrants its strong connotation. Alternatives such as ""a serious mistake"" or ""a major blunder"" may be more fitting in less critical scenarios. Remember, "a gross error" is about emphasizing the severity and the potential consequences of what went wrong.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a considerable error

This alternative suggests that the mistake is noteworthy in size or impact.

a severe error

This emphasizes the gravity and potential consequences of the mistake.

a substantial error

This highlights the significant quantity or degree of the error.

a gross miscarriage

While "miscarriage" usually refers to justice, its use here emphasizes a failure in execution or process, similar to "error".

a massive error

Implies the error is large in scale and broad in impact.

a serious error

This conveys the importance and potential harm caused by the error.

a nasty error

Indicates the error is unpleasant, potentially causing difficulties or problems.

a gross miscalculation

This specifies that the error arises from an incorrect calculation or assessment.

a raw error

Highlights the inexperience behind the error.

a crass error

Highlights lack of refinement or tact.

FAQs

How can I use "a gross error" in a sentence?

You can use "a gross error" to describe a significant mistake. For example, "The financial report contained "a gross error" that affected the company's valuation."

What are some alternatives to "a gross error"?

Alternatives include "a serious mistake", "a major blunder", or "a significant oversight", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a gross error" formal or informal language?

"A gross error" is generally considered formal language, suitable for professional or academic settings. In informal contexts, simpler phrases may be more appropriate.

What distinguishes "a gross error" from a simple mistake?

"A gross error" implies a mistake of significant magnitude or consequence, often resulting from negligence or incompetence. A simple mistake might be a minor, easily corrected oversight.