a serious lapse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a serious lapse" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant mistake or failure in judgment, behavior, or performance. Example: "The company faced backlash after a serious lapse in their safety protocols led to an accident."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

It is a serious lapse and one that is entirely my fault.

The New York Times

Yesterday a university spokeswoman, Marilyn Marks, called it a "serious lapse of judgment".

The Guardian

A Seton Hall spokeswoman, Natalie M. Thigpen, said the award was "a serious lapse".

The New York Times

It was a serious lapse of judgment that might have put United back years.

The Guardian - Sport

Nimr's neglecting to tell Roy about his brother is a serious lapse of judgment by someone who should know better.

The New York Times

It can only reflect failed intelligence and a serious lapse of Western insight into the Russian state of mind.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Medical errors have been defined as an actual or a potential serious lapse in the standard of care provided to a patient, or harm caused to a patient through the performance of a health service or a healthcare professional [ 1].

BMC Family Practice

"At a minimum he is confirming a very serious lapse on his part," Mr. Buckman said.

The New York Times

Mr Thompson said BBC Radio 2's broadcast of Jonathan Ross and Russell Brand's lewd answering machine messages for Fawlty Towers actor Andrew Sachs was "a very serious lapse of editorial judgment".

Independent

With all the info from Fresh and other services, it seems to me like a fairly serious lapse to not even attempt to do this kind of work.

TechCrunch

2. On the placement of corrections: If we run an Editors' Note — which may indicate a violation of ethical standards or other serious lapse — we put that note at the top: Editors' Note Appended.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a serious lapse", consider the specific context to determine if a more precise term would be more appropriate. For example, if the lapse involves judgment, "a serious misjudgment" might be better.

Common error

Avoid using "a serious lapse" for minor errors or trivial issues. This phrase implies a significant failure with potentially negative consequences, so ensure the context warrants such strong language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a serious lapse" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a significant deviation from expected behavior or standards. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's generally considered correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a serious lapse" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a significant error or failure. According to Ludwig AI it is appropriate in various contexts, particularly in news and media, science, and formal business settings. It's crucial to use this phrase judiciously, ensuring the severity of the situation warrants such language. Related phrases, such as "a grave error" or "a significant failure", can offer alternative ways to express a similar meaning with slightly different nuances. It is also important to note the register, since this may change based on different source types. Ludwig examples confirm its varied use but primarily in neutral reporting or assessments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A grave error

Emphasizes the seriousness and potential consequences of the mistake.

A significant failure

Focuses on the lack of success or achievement in a particular instance.

A critical blunder

Highlights the foolishness or carelessness of the mistake.

A major misjudgment

Underscores the poor decision-making that led to the error.

A regrettable oversight

Indicates that the mistake was unintentional and unfortunate.

A costly mistake

Focuses on the negative consequences and expenses resulting from the error.

A faux pas

Emphasizes the social awkwardness and breach of etiquette associated with the error.

A slip-up

Suggests a minor and unintentional error.

An indiscretion

Implies a lack of discretion or good judgment, often with ethical implications.

A boo-boo

Indicates a small and easily correctable error.

FAQs

How can I use "a serious lapse" in a sentence?

You can use "a serious lapse" to describe a significant mistake or failure. For example, "The company faced backlash after a serious lapse in their safety protocols led to an accident."

What can I say instead of "a serious lapse"?

You can use alternatives like "a grave error", "a significant failure", or "a critical blunder" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a serious lapse" or "a major lapse"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. However, "a serious lapse" might suggest a more severe consequence than "a major lapse".

What's the difference between "a serious lapse" and "a minor oversight"?

"A serious lapse" implies a significant failure with potential negative consequences, while "a minor oversight" suggests a small, easily correctable error.