create a margin for error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "create a margin for error" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the need for flexibility or allowance for mistakes in planning or execution. Example: "When budgeting for the project, it's important to create a margin for error to account for unexpected expenses."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"There is a margin for error".

The New York Times

I don't have much of a margin for error.

The New York Times - Sports

There wasn't much of a margin for error".

The New York Times - Sports

Obviously this creates a massive margin for error, as fun jewels can go hideously wrong.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

While those who rallied behind the law referred to the ten-year statute of limitations as "arbitrary," critics say allowing more time to pass creates a wider margin for error.

Vice

Playbooks, offensive lines, receivers and coaches all affect how easy it is for a quarterback to do his job, and have a huge impact on his statistical output because it creates the margin for error that he is afforded.

The Guardian - Sport

But the same problem undermined the 25-22 Metheirheir offense created little margin for error.

The New York Times - Sports

It also creates larger margins for error and tries to give companies incentives to behave.

The New York Times

Too often, nice guys have a smaller margin for error.

The New York Times - Sports

That's not a big margin for error.

The New Yorker

First, it gives Republicans a wider margin for error.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In experimental design, "create a margin for error" by using control groups and repeating measurements to increase the reliability and validity of the results.

Common error

Avoid assuming that initial estimates are perfectly accurate. Failing to "create a margin for error" based on overly optimistic projections can lead to budget overruns and unmet deadlines.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "create a margin for error" functions as a directive, typically used in planning or problem-solving contexts. It advises the implementation of a buffer or allowance to mitigate potential negative outcomes from errors or unforeseen circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

33%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

7%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "create a margin for error" is a grammatically correct directive that advises proactive risk management by building in a buffer for potential mistakes or unforeseen circumstances. While relatively infrequent, it is usable in a range of contexts, from professional to general communications. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability, highlighting its function to recommend a proactive strategy for mitigating negative outcomes. Related phrases include "build in a buffer" and "allow for leeway". By anticipating potential errors and incorporating allowances, individuals and organizations can enhance their resilience and success.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

build in a buffer

Emphasis on adding a safety net within the plan.

allow for leeway

Focuses on providing flexibility in execution.

provide some wiggle room

Highlights the ability to maneuver around potential problems.

leave room for adjustment

Centers on the capability to make changes as needed.

incorporate a safety factor

Stresses the addition of a protective element.

plan for contingencies

Highlights proactive preparation for unexpected events.

make allowances for errors

Highlights the need for overlooking the mistakes.

add a cushion

Focuses on creating a buffer to absorb potential shocks.

pad the estimates

Suggests inflating the numbers to account for possible increases.

bake in some tolerance

Involves integrating a certain level of acceptance for deviations.

FAQs

How can I use "create a margin for error" in a sentence?

You can use "create a margin for error" when planning a budget, designing an experiment, or setting timelines for a project to allow for unexpected events or deviations.

What does it mean to "create a margin for error"?

"Create a margin for error" means to plan or design something with extra space or resources to allow for mistakes or unexpected problems. It's similar to "building in a buffer" to avoid negative consequences.

What are some alternatives to "create a margin for error"?

Some alternatives include "allow for leeway", "provide some wiggle room", or "plan for contingencies", depending on the specific context.

In what situations is it most important to "create a margin for error"?

It is most important to "create a margin for error" in high-risk or critical situations, such as in surgery, engineering projects, or financial planning, where mistakes can have serious consequences. It is important to allow for "room for adjustment".