a possible error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a possible error" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the likelihood of an error occurring or when identifying something that may not be accurate. Example: "After reviewing the report, I noticed a possible error in the calculations that needs to be addressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

The agency said 1,973 families met the criteria for a possible error, but a more precise number was not available because there was often more than one reason a nonpayment-of-rent case was filed.

The New York Times

While this seems like a possible error of judgment, it's still a much better plan than the NFL's idea to try to gain UK fans by forcing the Jacksonville Jaguars upon them once per year.

The Guardian - Sport

After being queried by the office of the publisher about a possible error, Craig Whitney, who is also the paper's standards editor, drafted a response that was approved by Gerald Marzorati, who is also the editor of the magazine.

The New York Times

The gyroscope maintains a specific directional line in space with a possible error caused by drift of two or three degrees in each half hour that the gyroscope is left free.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Voltage current curves of the films were measured using an Autolab 302 N electrochemical workstation controlled with Nova software (with a possible error in current and voltage values as ±5%).

Nanoscale Research Letters

In this case, obvious lung sliding was not apparent, but the final clinical call was 'no true sliding seen but comet-tails and lung pulse - designated No PTX,' suggesting a possible error in interpretation rather than remote imaging accuracy.

Critical Ultrasound Journal

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

According to one academic study, even scientists and research professionals often wrongly interpret the margin of error to be an estimate of all possible error in polling data.

Huffington Post

The model results are validated through a comparison with published experimental data and found to be in a good agreement with a maximum possible error value of 10.3% in cell potential and power density output.

International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

The experimental set-up and the overall accuracy of all experiments is easily reproducible, nevertheless a few possible error sources have to be mentioned.

Journal of Applied Volcanology

23 25 In total 8 different surveys were used, each of which comprised vignettes on two types of potential errors; a possible medication error and potentially missed hand disinfection.

BMJ Open

In mid 1959, while in a funk over this possible error, a very insistent, shady looking man showed up and made me the offer I couldn't refuse.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a possible error", follow it with specific details or context to clarify the nature and potential impact of the error. For instance, specify the area where the error might have occurred or the consequences if it's not corrected.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a possible error" as a definite fact. Instead, use phrases like "it appears there might be an error" or "further investigation is needed to confirm the error" to maintain a balanced and objective tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a possible error" functions as a noun phrase acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a potential mistake or inaccuracy, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a possible error" is a commonly used phrase to indicate a potential mistake or inaccuracy. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, including science, news, and general discussions. It is essential to provide context and avoid presenting it as a definite fact. Alternatives such as "a potential mistake" or "a likely inaccuracy" can be used to add nuance. The phrase is versatile and easily understood, making it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a potential mistake

Replaces "error" with "mistake", offering a more informal tone.

a likely inaccuracy

Substitutes "error" with "inaccuracy", focusing on the lack of precision.

a conceivable fault

Uses "fault" instead of "error", implying a defect or flaw.

a plausible oversight

Replaces "error" with "oversight", suggesting a mistake due to negligence.

a suspected anomaly

Employs "anomaly" instead of "error", indicating a deviation from the norm.

a hypothetical imprecision

Substitutes "error" with "imprecision", highlighting a lack of exactness.

a tentative miscalculation

Uses "miscalculation" instead of "error", specifying a mistake in computation.

a projected defect

Replaces "error" with "defect", suggesting an inherent flaw.

a possible lapse

Employs "lapse" instead of "error", indicating a temporary failure.

a conceivable slip

Substitutes "error" with "slip", highlighting a minor mistake.

FAQs

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

You can use "a possible error" to suggest a potential mistake or inaccuracy. For example, "After reviewing the data, I noticed "a possible error" in the calculations".

What are some alternatives to "a possible error"?

Alternatives include "a potential mistake", "a likely inaccuracy", or "a conceivable fault", depending on the context and level of formality.

Is it better to say "possible error" or "potential error"?

Both "possible error" and "potential error" are grammatically correct and often interchangeable. "Possible" emphasizes the chance of an error existing, while "potential" emphasizes the capability of becoming an error. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

How do I address "a possible error" professionally?

When addressing "a possible error" in a professional setting, it's best to be direct but tactful. For example, "There appears to be "a possible error" in the report; could we review the figures together?"