a real mistake

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a real mistake" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the seriousness or significance of an error or blunder. Example: "Missing the deadline was a real mistake that cost us the contract."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

That was a real mistake".

The New York Times

"It was a real mistake," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

Most people don't know what a real mistake feels like.

The New Yorker

That's a real mistake, given the size of the field.

The New Yorker

She only lost races when a real mistake was made".

The New York Times - Sports

The United Nations described the decision as "a real mistake".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

We are guests in their home and even though it was an accident, even though it was not intentional, we had made a bad mistake, a real error and the people deserved my apology, the president deserved my apology.

The New York Times

That ball, a beautifully thrown pass from Manning dropped into double coverage, helped erased memories of Manning's only real mistake: an intentional grounding penalty in the end zone in the first quarter that provided the Falcons' only points.

The New York Times

If you substitute Obama for Osama, Shiite for Sunni or Iran for Iraq, are you innocently using the wrong word or name — which can be honestly brushed aside as misspeaking, no big deal — or are you offering an easy out for your real mistake?

The New York Times - Magazine

This is a real expensive mistake".

The New York Times

"I think it would be a real substantive mistake to do the Landrieu bill," says MIT health economist Jon Gruber, a supporter of the Affordable Care Act.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a real mistake", ensure the context provides enough information for the reader to understand the specific nature and consequences of the mistake. This adds clarity and strengthens your point.

Common error

Avoid using "a real mistake" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can diminish its impact and make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "serious error" or "significant blunder".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a real mistake" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the predicate nominative or object of a sentence. It identifies and characterizes a specific error, emphasizing its tangible and impactful nature. As Ludwig AI says, it underlines the seriousness of an error or blunder.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a real mistake" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to underscore the tangibility and significance of an error. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in written English and it emphasizes the seriousness of the error. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, its purpose is to highlight consequential errors, making it clear they are not mere oversights. When using this phrase, ensure it adds meaningful emphasis and avoid overuse to maintain its impact. For alternative expressions, consider options like "genuine error" or "serious blunder" to vary your language and maintain clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a genuine error

Emphasizes the authenticity of the mistake.

a serious blunder

Highlights the severity and impact of the mistake.

a grave error

Indicates a mistake with significant consequences.

a regrettable oversight

Focuses on the aspect of neglect or inattention leading to the mistake.

a costly misjudgment

Stresses the negative repercussions of the error in terms of resources or opportunities.

an unfortunate slip-up

Downplays the mistake as a minor and accidental occurrence.

a significant lapse

Highlights a temporary deviation from expected standards or behavior.

a bad call

Indicates a poor decision-making process resulting in a negative outcome.

a major failing

Emphasizes the deficiency or inadequacy that caused the error.

a critical flaw

Focuses on an inherent weakness or defect leading to the problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "a real mistake" to emphasize the significance of an error. For example, "Failing to properly train the staff was "a real mistake" that led to numerous customer complaints."

What are some alternatives to "a real mistake"?

Alternatives include "a serious error", "a significant blunder", or "a grave mistake", depending on the context and the severity of the error.

Is it appropriate to use "a real mistake" in formal writing?

Yes, "a real mistake" is generally acceptable in formal writing, but consider the tone and audience. In some cases, a more precise or nuanced term might be preferable, such as "a critical error" or "a costly oversight".

What's the difference between "a real mistake" and "a simple mistake"?

"A real mistake" implies that the error had significant consequences or was particularly egregious. "A simple mistake" suggests a minor, easily rectified error with little impact.