fundamental error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fundamental error" is correct and commonly used in written English.
You can use it when describing a mistake or flaw that is essential or central to a process or idea. Here is an example: "The judge overturned the conviction due to a fundamental error in the prosecution's evidence." In this sentence, the term "fundamental error" is used to refer to a major error that undermined the entire case and led to the conviction being overturned.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

He called this a "fundamental error".

The Guardian

We made a fundamental error in presenting that world".

The New York Times - Arts

"Moving to London was his fundamental error," Kent Rawlingson, a buildings conservator, said.

The Guardian

A royal commission of inquiry later criticized that finding as "a serious and fundamental error".

The New York Times

How could the CPS have made such a fundamental error of analysis?

The Guardian - Opinion

Elsewhere, however, an essay by the other curator, Michael Snodin, contains a fundamental error.

The Economist

Even "La Mer", the liveliest essay in the opening section ("Life"), is compromised by a fundamental error of judgment.

The Guardian - Books

"To make such a fundamental error is alone an indication of the unreliability of his entire report".

The Guardian

A few hours before the protest started Jérome Cahuzac, a junior budget minister, described the demonstration as a "fundamental" error.

The Guardian - Business

"People like the image because of the fundamental error that we think of evolution as progress," Dr. Gould said.

The New York Times - Science

One fundamental error that had far-reaching effects was attributed to Ptolemy an underestimation of the size of the Earth.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "fundamental error", clearly articulate the error's impact and consequences to emphasize its importance.

Common error

Avoid labeling minor issues as a "fundamental error". Reserve this term for flaws that genuinely undermine the core of a process or argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fundamental error" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a critical mistake or flaw at the core of a concept, plan, or process. Ludwig highlights that the phrase is used to pinpoint errors that significantly impact outcomes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fundamental error" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to describe a significant mistake. As Ludwig confirms, the term is appropriate for highlighting flaws that undermine the core of a process or argument. It appears frequently in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts, indicating its broad applicability. When using "fundamental error", ensure that the error is truly essential and impactful, and consider alternatives like "critical mistake" or "grave error" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

critical mistake

Focuses on the severity of the error's consequences.

grave error

Emphasizes the seriousness and potential impact of the mistake.

major blunder

Suggests a careless or foolish mistake with significant repercussions.

serious oversight

Highlights the negligence or failure to notice something important.

key misstep

Implies a wrong decision or action that significantly altered the outcome.

basic flaw

Points to a fundamental weakness or defect in a system or plan.

fatal flaw

Indicates an inherent weakness that will inevitably lead to failure.

critical deficiency

Focuses on the lack of an essential element or quality.

primary defect

Emphasizes that the flaw is original and most important.

root cause

Emphasizes that the error is the underlying reason for other errors.

FAQs

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

You can use "fundamental error" to describe a critical mistake or flaw in reasoning, process, or design. For example: "The project failed due to a "fundamental error" in its planning stage".

What are some alternatives to "fundamental error"?

Alternatives include "critical mistake", "grave error", or "major blunder". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "fundamental error" is appropriate for formal writing. It clearly and directly communicates the presence of a significant flaw.

What is the difference between "fundamental error" and "mistake"?

A "mistake" is a general term for an incorrect action or judgment. A "fundamental error" is a mistake that undermines the core of something, having far-reaching consequences, as opposed to a superficial slip.