factual error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "factual error" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an error in a statement which is factually incorrect. For example, "The report contained several factual errors which made it unreliable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And he apologized for a factual error.

The New York Times

Significant factual error and/or obvious contradictions.

The Washington Post

There was also a factual error in Rosenbaum's essay.

The New York Times - Books

Factual error: The hospital scene at the start says London.

Independent

His chapter on Afghanistan contains the occasional factual error.

The Economist

Factual error: Hobbs gets the mini gun off the drone.

Independent

But that's by the way; there's no doubt that I made a bone-headed factual error.

The Guardian - Film

There must be something in family life that generates factual error.

The New Yorker

This article was amended on the 16th December 2014 due to a factual error.

The Guardian - Books

This article was amended on 22 April to correct a factual error.

The Guardian

(One factual error, however: he is played by the much too handsome Randall Park).

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When addressing a "factual error", be specific about the incorrect information and provide verifiable evidence to support the correction.

Common error

Avoid generalizing "factual errors". Instead, dissect each inaccuracy individually to reveal potential motivations or overlooked contextual factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "factual error" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. It identifies a specific type of mistake – one relating to facts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

13%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "factual error" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe an inaccuracy in a statement or piece of information. Ludwig AI confirms its broad usability. It's most frequently found in news and media contexts, followed by academic and scientific writing. When using the phrase, specificity is key; clearly identify the incorrect information and provide evidence for the correction. Related phrases include "incorrect fact", "inaccurate detail", and "false statement". Remember, avoiding generalizations and understanding the nuance behind the "factual error" can lead to more effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

incorrect fact

Uses a simpler adjective to describe the error.

mistaken fact

Simple alteration of the original phrase with a different adjective.

inaccurate detail

Focuses on the level of detail where the error occurs.

erroneous information

Highlights the incorrect nature of the data.

false statement

Emphasizes the act of stating something untrue.

untrue claim

Highlights the assertion of something not being true.

misinformation

Refers to the broader concept of false or inaccurate information.

unverified detail

Focuses on the lack of confirmation for a piece of information.

unfounded assertion

Emphasizes the lack of a solid base for a statement.

fabricated data

Suggests the information was intentionally invented.

FAQs

How can I use "factual error" in a sentence?

You can use "factual error" to describe an inaccuracy in a statement or piece of writing. For example, "The article contained a significant "factual error" regarding the date of the event".

What's a good alternative to "factual error"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "incorrect fact", "inaccurate detail", or "false statement".

Is it better to say "factual error" or "mistake"?

While "mistake" is a general term for an error, "factual error" specifically refers to an error related to facts. Use "factual error" when the inaccuracy pertains to verifiable information.

How do I correct a "factual error" in my writing?

To correct a "factual error", first identify the incorrect information, then provide the accurate information with a reliable source. Acknowledge the "factual error" and clearly state the correction.