err

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "err" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate making a mistake or being uncertain about something. Example: "If you err in your calculations, it could lead to significant errors in the final report."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ed told Brand post-election there will be resurrection And the UK will no longer be Tory … err.

The Guardian - Opinion

Most clerics err on the side of caution, acutely aware of the consequences of bad timing.

The Guardian

In a tweet, ACT Policing said: "We'll always err on side of caution to keep you safe".

The Guardian

In cases which are open to interpretation or aren't clear-cut, we may err on the side of caution but we try not to be heavy-handed.

The Guardian

I suppose I understand what he's getting at the notion that all humans err, so the more concentrated is authority the greater is the magnitude of potential error.

The Economist

If consumers and companies cannot be sure that their information is safe, they will err on the side of caution.

The Economist

It is less self-critical when it comes to its tendency to err on the statist side in covering public services.

The Economist

Brazil's higher-than-expected inflation rate is still well within the margin of tolerance allowed for by its targeting regime, for example.In battling the pessimists, however, the World Bank's economists may err too much on the side of optimism.

The Economist

Indeed, if anything they were underselling themselves, tending to err more than necessary on the side of uncertainty.

The Economist

China's new leaders will probably err on the side of caution, at least until they consolidate their power, which may take a long time.

The Economist

Governments need to boost demand by spending more on infrastructure; central banks should err on the side of looseness.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "err" to indicate a mistake or deviation from correctness, but consider using more specific synonyms when the context requires it for greater clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "err" excessively in formal writing. Opt for more precise and professional vocabulary like "make a mistake" or "be mistaken" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "err" is as an intransitive verb. Ludwig AI validates this usage, showing it describes the act of making a mistake or straying from correctness, often implying a moral or ethical deviation as seen in some of the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "err" is a grammatically sound verb that signifies making a mistake, straying, or being incorrect. Ludwig AI confirms this, providing numerous examples from reputable sources like The Economist and The Guardian where it is used to convey a sense of caution, mistake, or hesitation. While versatile, it is more common in news and media contexts and should be used judiciously in formal writing. When aiming for precision, consider alternative verbs like "make a mistake" or "be mistaken" for enhanced clarity and professionalism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a mistake

Emphasizes the action of committing an error, rather than the state of being in error.

be mistaken

Focuses on the state of holding an incorrect belief or understanding.

go wrong

Suggests a deviation from the intended or correct path.

slip up

Implies a minor error or oversight, often in a casual context.

be in error

Highlights the condition of being incorrect or having made a mistake.

get it wrong

A more informal way of saying "make a mistake" or "be incorrect".

miscalculate

Refers specifically to errors in calculations or estimations.

stray

Suggests deviating from a correct path or standard, often morally or ethically.

lapse

Indicates a temporary failure or decline from a previously established standard.

miss the mark

Means failing to achieve the desired result or outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "err" in a sentence?

"Err" can be used to indicate making a mistake, as in "To "err is human"". It's also used to express hesitation or uncertainty, such as when someone pauses and says "Err... I'm not sure".

What are some alternatives to using "err"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "make a mistake", "be mistaken", or simply pause with "um" or "uh" to indicate hesitation.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "err"?

Starting a sentence with "err" is generally acceptable in informal contexts to indicate hesitation or uncertainty. However, it's best to avoid doing so in formal writing.

What is the difference between "err" and "error"?

"Err" is a verb that means to make a mistake or stray from what is correct. "Error" is a noun that refers to the mistake itself. For example, "To err is human; everyone makes errors".