correct an error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "correct an error" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of fixing a mistake or inaccuracy in a document, statement, or process. Example: "Please review the report and correct any errors you find before submission."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This article has been amended to correct an error.

The Guardian

This article was updated on 14 December 2013 to correct an error in the headline.

The Guardian - Opinion

This article was amended on 4 May 2016 to correct an error in the standfirst.

The Guardian - Film

This article was amended on 26 October 2016 to correct an error.

The Guardian - Opinion

This article was amended on 25 November 2013 to correct an error in the byline.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This article was amended on 02/10/2013 to correct an error in the byline.

The Guardian - Travel

Anne Brontë's gravesite receives a new plaque to correct an error on the original.

The New Yorker

This article was amended on 12 September to correct an error, changing £8m to £8bn.

The Guardian

This article was amended on 7 February to correct an error.

The Guardian

Have you tried to correct an error in your credit report?

The New York Times

This article was amended on 15 April 2015, to correct an error in the headline.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always proofread after attempting to "correct an error" to ensure that new errors haven't been introduced in the process. Use tools like grammar checkers and spell checkers to assist.

Common error

When you "correct an error", don't assume that's the only one. Errors often appear in clusters; diligently check surrounding text or data for similar mistakes to ensure thoroughness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "correct an error" functions as a verb phrase, where "correct" is a transitive verb requiring a direct object (in this case, "an error"). This phrase describes the action of rectifying or fixing a mistake, as shown by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "correct an error" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for describing the action of fixing a mistake. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's versatile, appearing commonly in news, scientific, and business contexts. While alternatives like "rectify a mistake" or "fix an error" exist, the choice depends on the desired level of formality and the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to proofread thoroughly after correcting any error to avoid introducing new ones.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rectify a mistake

Emphasizes correcting something that was done wrongly or improperly.

amend an inaccuracy

Focuses on making changes to something that is not entirely accurate.

fix an error

A more informal way to express correcting a mistake.

adjust an incorrect value

Specifically refers to correcting numerical or quantitative errors.

remedy a flaw

Similar to rectify, but might imply a more formal or legal context.

resolve a problem

Suggests a broader scope, addressing not just errors but problems.

revise a fault

Implies a more thorough review and correction process.

debug an issue

Typically used in software and technology contexts, referring to finding and fixing errors.

repair a defect

Often used in technical or mechanical contexts, but can apply metaphorically.

improve an imperfection

Shifts the focus to enhancing something that is not perfect.

FAQs

How can I use "correct an error" in a sentence?

You can use "correct an error" in sentences like: "The article was amended to "correct an error" in the headline", or "You need to refresh the page to "correct an error"".

What are some alternatives to "correct an error"?

Some alternatives to "correct an error" include "rectify a mistake", "amend an inaccuracy", or "fix an error", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "correct an error" or "fix an error"?

Both "correct an error" and "fix an error" are acceptable, but "correct an error" is generally considered more formal. The choice depends on the tone and audience of your writing.

What steps should I take after I "correct an error"?

After you "correct an error", it's important to proofread the entire document or section to ensure no new errors were introduced and that the correction is accurate and complete.