a margin of error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a margin of error" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in statistical contexts to indicate the amount of error that can be expected in a measurement or estimate. Example: "The survey results show a margin of error of plus or minus 3%, which is acceptable for our research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Is there a margin of error?

Independent

Polls have a margin of error (duh).

The New York Times

It has a margin of error of 2.7 points.

The New York Times

Well, a margin of error of $35bn seems reasonable.

The Guardian

The survey had a margin of error of 3.5percentt.

The New York Times

As such, they do not have a margin of error.

The Guardian

The poll had a margin of error of 2.2percentt.

The New York Times

-Why do most polls have a "margin of error"?

The New York Times

The poll had a margin of error of 2.9 points.

The New York Times

Both report a margin of error of 4.5 points.

The New York Times

You also need to leave a margin of error.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a margin of error" to convey the uncertainty about the forecasts, mention the factors that are contributing to the increase of the uncertainty (i.e. low historical data, technology limitations)

Common error

Avoid assuming a smaller "margin of error" automatically equates to higher accuracy. Sample size and methodology also significantly impact the reliability of results.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a margin of error" functions as a noun phrase, typically modifying another noun (e.g., "poll", "survey"). It quantifies the potential inaccuracy present in an estimate or measurement. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely recognized.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a margin of error" is a commonly used phrase to express the degree of uncertainty in a measurement or estimate, primarily in the context of news and media. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct. When reporting or interpreting data, remember to consider its "margin of error" as it influences reliability. Alternatives like "degree of uncertainty" offer similar meanings. When dealing with statistical data, stating clearly the "margin of error" provides context to its reliability. Also, do not assume that a lower "margin of error" equates with higher accuracy. Sample size and methodology also influence this.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an error margin

This alternative is a slight variation in word order, using 'error' as a modifier.

a degree of uncertainty

This phrase replaces 'margin of error' with a more general term for uncertainty.

a confidence interval

This term is more specific to statistics, referring to the range within which a true value is estimated to lie.

an acceptable error

This suggests that the error is within tolerable limits.

a permissible deviation

This highlights the allowable range of difference from a standard or expected value.

a tolerance range

This refers to the range of acceptable variation in a process or measurement.

a built-in allowance for error

This emphasizes that the possibility of error was considered and accounted for in advance.

room for error

This idiomatic expression suggests there is some flexibility to make mistakes without severe consequences.

a safety buffer

This shifts the focus to the idea of protecting against negative outcomes by providing extra space or resources.

a cushion for mistakes

This is a more figurative way of saying there is some leeway for errors.

FAQs

How do I interpret "a margin of error" in research findings?

A "margin of error" indicates the range within which the true population value is likely to fall. A smaller margin suggests more precise results, while a larger one indicates greater uncertainty. It's crucial to consider this range when evaluating the significance of any reported findings.

What factors influence the size of "a margin of error" in a survey?

The size of "a margin of error" is primarily affected by the sample size and the variability within the population being studied. Larger samples generally lead to smaller margins of error, as do populations with less variability. The confidence level chosen for the study also plays a role.

How does the confidence level relate to "a margin of error"?

The confidence level (e.g., 95%) indicates the probability that the true population value falls within the range defined by "a margin of error". A higher confidence level requires a wider margin of error to maintain that level of certainty.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "a margin of error"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "degree of uncertainty", "confidence interval", or "acceptable error". These options offer different nuances in expressing the concept of potential inaccuracies.