error on

USAGE SUMMARY

'error on' is not correct or usable in written English.
To make a statement about an action or an event that is seen as having an expected or desired outcome, you can use the phrase 'err on the side of'. For example, "For my safety, I tend to err on the side of caution."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I made an error on that one.

The New York Times - Sports

There was no margin for error on that one.

Independent

That was an error on my part.

The New York Times

There is an error on the Krieghoff".

The New Yorker

Ms. Thompson blamed her error on excitement.

The New York Times

No. 12 Little margin for error on tee shot.

The New York Times - Sports

I don't think it was driver error on Senna's part.

The Guardian - Sport

Li makes an error on the rally for 40-15.

The Guardian

A reader notified The Times about the error on Thursday.

The New York Times - Magazine

There was a slight error on our signage.

The New Yorker

It was a terrible error on my part".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing an error, specify the location or context using prepositions like "in" or "with". For example, "error in the calculation" or "fault with the design".

Common error

Avoid using "on" to indicate where an error occurred. Phrases like "error on the report" are less clear than "error in the report". Instead, opt for prepositions such as "in", "with", or "regarding" to clearly specify the location or context of the error.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "error on" is a prepositional phrase, often functioning as an adjective modifying a noun. However, Ludwig AI indicates it's often grammatically incorrect and requires rephrasing for clarity. It describes where an error occurred, though less precisely than alternatives.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "error on" appears frequently across various sources, as Ludwig AI indicates, but it's considered grammatically questionable. It often requires rephrasing for better clarity. The phrase serves to identify the location or context of an error, but it's best to use more precise prepositions like "in" or "with". For example, use "error in the calculation" rather than "error on the calculation". Understanding the appropriate context and alternative phrasing will ensure more effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mistake in

Focuses on the location or context where the mistake occurred.

fault with

Highlights the flaw or defect in something.

inaccuracy regarding

Emphasizes the lack of precision or correctness about a subject.

oversight concerning

Indicates something missed or neglected about a matter.

slip-up regarding

Refers to a minor mistake or unintended error.

defect within

Points out an inherent flaw or imperfection within something.

problem concerning

Indicates an issue or difficulty regarding a particular thing.

flaw in

Similar to "fault with", but emphasizes a more significant imperfection.

lapse in

Highlights a temporary failure of judgment or memory.

deficiency in

Points out a lack or shortage of something necessary or desirable.

FAQs

What are the correct prepositions to use with "error"?

The most suitable prepositions to use with "error" are typically "in", "with", or "regarding", depending on the context. For example, "error in the code", "problem with the system", or "inaccuracy regarding the data".

Is it ever correct to say "error on"?

While frequently used, "error on" is grammatically questionable. Often, it's better to rephrase for better clarity and correctness, for instance, using phrases like "mistake in" or "fault with".

What does it mean to "err on the side of caution"?

To "err on the side of" caution means to choose a course of action that is more careful or conservative, even if it seems unnecessary, to avoid potential risks or negative consequences.

How can I avoid making errors in my writing?

To minimize errors in writing, review your work carefully, use grammar and spell-check tools, and seek feedback from others. Pay attention to common mistakes, such as incorrect preposition usage or unclear phrasing.