gross mistakes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gross mistakes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe significant or serious errors in various contexts, such as writing, decision-making, or performance. Example: "The report was filled with gross mistakes that undermined its credibility."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

"Gross mistakes were made and there doesn't seem to be accountability.

The New York Times

Even Deng Xiaoping, Mao's most prominent successor, signed off on a judgment that Mao had made "gross mistakes".

The New York Times - Arts

They need public agencies and regulators to save us from gross mistakes, and, paradoxically, to protect the pluralism that the market process extinguishes.

The Guardian

Their failure, in Mr Obama's first term, to advance the cause of peace between Jews and Arabs was due to gross mistakes on both sides, though Mr Netanyahu was the guiltier party.

The Economist

While still celebrating Mao, the ruling party has acknowledged the "gross mistakes" of a man whose Great Leap Forward resulted in a famine which killed tens of millions of people in the early 1960s.

The Guardian

Lowth went on to use examples from Shakespeare, Milton and the King James Bible as "false syntax" illustrating errors, complaining that even "Our best authors have committed gross mistakes, for want of a due knowledge of English grammar".Perhaps the stern Victorians, at least, mastered English?

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Its data should correct "a gross mistake that is an embarrassment to astronomy", he told the Observer.

The Guardian

Several high-ranking officials in President Hamid Karzai's government say Mr. Hekmati's detention at Guantánamo was a gross mistake.

The New York Times

Mr Klaus said the authorities had made a "gross mistake" and demanded a formal explanation.In this section The French lesson Wagging the west Mission to Ankara Potemkin fleet Undesirable Persson Bonking ravers ReprintsThe police have plenty of supporters, however.

The Economist

Mr. Koefoed-Nielsen, the analyst, said, "You'd have to say that going to America is risky, but they have a good track record, and it's a gross mistake to underestimate them".

The New York Times

The state, which now controls about 40 per cent of the sugar acreage, was determined on diversification; the gross mistake (which Cubans themselves acknowledge more fiercely than any outsider) was to pick on some of the most productive sugar fields for the changeover.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gross mistakes", ensure the context clearly conveys that the errors are significant and have notable consequences. Avoid using it for minor or trivial errors.

Common error

Avoid using "gross mistakes" to describe minor errors or oversights. This phrase is best reserved for situations where the errors have substantial and negative repercussions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gross mistakes" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "gross" modifies the noun "mistakes". It describes errors that are significant in magnitude or consequence. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts, consistent with Ludwig AI's assessment.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "gross mistakes" is used to describe significant and impactful errors. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and appropriateness in formal contexts. While not as frequent as simpler terms like "serious errors", it effectively conveys the magnitude of the mistakes. Its usage spans across News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources, highlighting its versatility. When writing, reserve "gross mistakes" for situations where errors have substantial negative repercussions to avoid overstating their significance. Related alternatives such as "major blunders" or "egregious errors" offer nuanced ways to describe similar situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serious errors

Emphasizes the severity of the errors.

major blunders

Highlights the clumsiness and impact of the errors.

grave faults

Focuses on the seriousness and ethical implications of the errors.

egregious errors

Stresses the shocking and outstanding nature of the mistakes.

significant failings

Shifts the focus to the lack of success or effectiveness.

critical lapses

Indicates severe negligence or failures in judgment.

terrible oversights

Highlights the neglectful aspect of the mistakes.

severe miscalculations

Focuses on errors in judgment or planning.

appalling errors

Emphasizes the shocking and distressing nature of the errors.

serious slip-ups

Suggests casual but significant mistakes.

FAQs

How can I use "gross mistakes" in a sentence?

You can use "gross mistakes" to describe significant errors with notable consequences. For example, "The project was delayed due to several "gross mistakes" in planning."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "gross mistakes"?

Alternatives include "serious errors", "major blunders", or "egregious errors", depending on the context and the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "gross mistakes" in formal writing?

Yes, "gross mistakes" is appropriate in formal writing when describing significant errors. However, ensure that the tone remains professional and objective.

What is the difference between "gross mistakes" and "minor errors"?

"Gross mistakes" refers to significant errors with substantial consequences, while "minor errors" denotes trivial or inconsequential mistakes. The choice depends on the severity and impact of the errors being described.