commits a single error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "commits a single error" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation where someone makes one mistake or fault in their actions or statements. Example: "In the report, the author commits a single error that affects the overall conclusion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

He tied for the AL league with a 1.000 fielding percentage by not committing a single error, although he had the sixth highest total of hit batsmen with seven.

Wikipedia

He also did not commit a single passing error in 25 attempts and finished the weekend with a.935 passing percentage.

Los Angeles Times

Though certifiers mostly committed single error in a sub-heading (n = 251), two errors (n = 40) and three errors (n = 1) were also committed within the same sub-heading.

BMC Health Services Research

If you think you have committed an error, say "Error".

Cognitive, Affective and Behavioral Neuroscience

Best surprise: Reed didn't commit a single penalty.

The Washington Post

UConn did not commit a single penalty.

Wikipedia

In our study, we found single error (n = 251) often committed under individual sub-heading than two errors (n = 40) and three errors (n = 1).

BMC Health Services Research

If a doctor commits a serious medicines error, it doesn't happen: there's no censure at all (Consultant, Hospital B Iff a nurse commits a serious medicines error, they're removed from their responsibilities.

BMJ Quality and Safety

Our approach is more democratic: we do not commit to a single LPM.

Artificial Intelligence

The best are committed to a single flavor.

The New York Times - Food

Each single classifier has a weight that is decreased by a determined factor β every time it commits an error.

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "commits a single error", ensure the context clearly indicates that only one mistake is being referenced. Avoid ambiguity by explicitly stating the error if possible.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a single error is indicative of overall incompetence. Focus on the specific instance and its impact, rather than drawing broad conclusions about the person or process involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "commits a single error" functions as a descriptive statement, often used to evaluate performance or behavior. It highlights the occurrence of only one mistake, as supported by examples from Ludwig and confirmed by Ludwig AI, which indicates the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

33%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "commits a single error" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's primarily used to describe situations where an individual or entity makes just one mistake, often implying overall competence. As shown by Ludwig examples, this phrase appears across a variety of contexts, from news and media to scientific research. While seemingly straightforward, effective usage involves ensuring the context explicitly indicates a single error and avoiding overgeneralizations based on this isolated instance. Alternative phrases include "makes one mistake" or "errors in one instance", each providing slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Makes one mistake

Focuses on the action of making a mistake, using simpler vocabulary.

Errors in one instance

Highlights the occurrence of errors specifically in one situation or event.

Commits an isolated mistake

Emphasizes that the mistake is singular and not part of a pattern.

Makes a solitary error

Uses "solitary" to stress the singleness of the error.

Lapses once

Suggests a temporary failure or slip, occurring only one time.

Slips up a single time

Informal, indicating a one-time mistake or failure.

Blunders on one occasion

Implies a significant mistake made in a particular situation.

Falters in a single instance

Highlights a momentary loss of strength or effectiveness.

Goofs up once

Informal term for making a silly or careless mistake.

Misses the mark once

Indicates a failure to achieve a goal or standard in one instance.

FAQs

How can I use "commits a single error" in a sentence?

You can use "commits a single error" to describe a situation where someone makes only one mistake. For example, "Despite the complexity of the task, she "commits a single error", showcasing her skill and attention to detail."

What are some alternatives to "commits a single error"?

Alternatives include "makes one mistake", "errors in one instance", or "commits an isolated mistake". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "commits a single error" or "makes one error"?

Both "commits a single error" and "makes one error" are grammatically correct and understandable. "Commits a single error" might be perceived as slightly more formal, while "makes one error" is more straightforward.

What does it mean when someone "commits a single error"?

It means that the person in question has made only one mistake, implying that their performance was otherwise accurate and competent. It focuses on the singularity of the mistake rather than its severity.