enormous error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "enormous error" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant mistake or blunder in various contexts, such as academic writing, professional reports, or casual conversation. Example: "The decision to ignore the warning signs was an enormous error that cost the company millions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"Baloney," said Newt Gingrich of the scheduling excuse, warning of the "enormous error" in ducking the event.

The New York Times

He made the enormous error of colliding with Webber at the Turkish Grand Prix, while trying to pass to take the lead of the race from Webber.

The New York Times - Sports

The author zeros in on one enormous error that he says each of the 11 made — a mistake, in the words of the book's title, that cost each $1 billion or more.

The New York Times

Francesc Vendrell, a former special representative in Afghanistan for both the UN and the EU, argues that for the foreign powers to accept this election would be an "enormous error".

The Economist

However, two major factors, compressive storage and sorption effect, can lead to enormous error when testing sorptive rocks using the pulse-decay method (PDM).

Fuel

It should be noted that only a small amount of water in the injected nitrogen gas will cause an enormous error in the results.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Keep in mind of course that even now you're apt to make enormous errors in judgment; at this time last season, Toronto FC were third overall in the league, LA in 10th, and New England, who would go on to become MLS Cup finalists, were fourth from bottom.

The Guardian - Sport

Enormous errors can be introduced by making this seemingly innocuous assumption, and such errors can mislead assessments of polysulfides' role in such processes as discussed below.

Geochemical Transactions

However, topographic and atmospheric effects can produce enormous errors in the quantitative retrieval of FVC data from satellite images of mountainous areas.

ISPRS Journal of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing

However, the quantitative chemical analysis relies on several factors; therefore, standard assumptions may result in enormous errors in quantification [ 19, 20].

Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry

Contador called the anthem error "an enormous mistake".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Using "enormous error" effectively involves quantifying the impact if possible. Instead of simply stating there was an "enormous error", explain its consequences, such as financial losses or reputational damage. This adds weight to your statement and provides a clearer understanding of the error's significance.

Common error

Avoid using "enormous error" for minor mistakes. This can diminish the impact of the phrase when describing truly significant errors. Reserve it for situations where the scale or consequences of the error are genuinely substantial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "enormous error" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "enormous" modifies the noun "error". This structure highlights the significant scale or impact of the mistake. Ludwig examples, confirm this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "enormous error" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a significant mistake. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and applicability across diverse contexts, primarily in News & Media and Science. While it’s essential to use the phrase judiciously, reserving it for genuinely substantial errors to avoid diminishing its impact, it serves as a powerful way to emphasize the scale and consequences of a mistake.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant mistake

Replaces "enormous" with "significant", slightly reducing the emphasis on the size of the error.

major blunder

Substitutes both words for synonyms, changing the tone to be slightly more informal.

critical mistake

Replaces "enormous" with "critical", focusing on the impact of the error rather than its size.

grave error

Uses "grave" to emphasize the seriousness and potential consequences of the error.

serious blunder

Combines "serious" and "blunder" to highlight both the severity and the nature of the mistake.

egregious mistake

Emphasizes the shocking or outstanding nature of the error.

monumental mistake

Replaces "enormous" with "monumental", highlighting the immense scale and impact of the mistake.

terrible mistake

Uses "terrible" to underscore the negative consequences and severity of the error.

colossal failure

Shifts from "error" to "failure", emphasizing the lack of success or achievement resulting from the mistake.

massive oversight

Replaces "error" with "oversight", implying the mistake was due to negligence or inattention.

FAQs

What is another way to say "enormous error"?

Alternatives to "enormous error" include "significant mistake", "major blunder", or "critical mistake", depending on the context.

How does the connotation of "enormous error" differ from "simple mistake"?

"Enormous error" implies a mistake with significant consequences or scale, while "simple mistake" suggests a minor, easily rectifiable error. The choice depends on the severity and impact of the error you are describing.

Is it appropriate to use "enormous error" in formal writing?

Yes, "enormous error" is appropriate in formal writing when describing a mistake of substantial significance. However, consider the specific context and audience to ensure the tone is suitable.

Can "enormous error" be used in both professional and academic contexts?

Yes, the phrase "enormous error" is suitable for both professional and academic contexts, provided that the described error genuinely warrants such a description due to its scale and consequences. Always ensure that the term aligns with the overall tone and formality of the piece.