initial assumption was incorrect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "initial assumption was incorrect" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a conclusion or belief that has been proven wrong after further analysis or evidence. Example: "After reviewing the data, I realized that my initial assumption was incorrect, and I needed to adjust my approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The investor doesn't want to hear about how your initial assumptions were incorrect, or that you need more time, or that you had issues executing.

TechCrunch

I wasn't always sure this assumption was incorrect.

The Washington Post

Our assumption was incorrect.

International Journal of Emergency Medicine

My assumption was incorrect.

Huffington Post

Unfortunately, their assumption was incorrect.

Huffington Post

However, this assumption was incorrect.

Biology Direct

This assumption was incorrect, although the guidelines were strict and approval was rare.

BMC Health Services Research

After the paper was published the author was informed that this assumption was incorrect.

BMJ Open

Assume your initial assumptions were wrong.

Science Magazine

But this assumption is incorrect.

Archives of Civil and Mechanical Engineering

If your assumption is incorrect, it really will not matter.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "initial assumption was incorrect", follow up with an explanation of why the assumption was wrong and what new information led to the correction. This provides clarity and context for the reader.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the consequences of the "initial assumption was incorrect". Instead, focus on the lessons learned and how the correction positively influenced the outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "initial assumption was incorrect" functions as a statement that acknowledges a previous belief or supposition has been proven wrong. As Ludwig indicates, it is grammatically sound and serves to introduce a correction or revision.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

33%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "initial assumption was incorrect" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to acknowledge that a prior belief or idea has been proven wrong. As shown by Ludwig, its function is to introduce a correction, clarify understanding, and promote accuracy in various contexts, including science, news, and academia. While straightforward, using this phrase effectively involves explaining why the assumption was wrong and what new information led to the revision. Recognizing and correcting flawed assumptions is a crucial step in learning and problem-solving, making this phrase a valuable tool for clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

original hypothesis was wrong

Focuses on the scientific context of testing a hypothesis, implying a formal investigation.

first thought was mistaken

Highlights that the error was in the initial thought or consideration.

preliminary belief was unfounded

Suggests the initial belief lacked a solid basis or evidence.

early supposition proved false

Indicates that the initial idea or guess was later shown to be untrue.

starting point was erroneous

Emphasizes that the mistake was in the very beginning or foundation of a reasoning process.

intial premise was flawed

Highlights that the base on which the conclusion was drawn had issues.

original assessment was inaccurate

Focuses on the act of evaluation or judgment, and its failure to align with reality.

initial guess was off base

Indicates that the initial speculation or estimate was completely wrong.

first estimate was wrong

Emphasizes that the initial calculation turned out not to be valid.

preliminary conclusion was misguided

Suggests that the early determination or judgment was based on faulty reasoning or information.

FAQs

How can I use "initial assumption was incorrect" in a sentence?

You can use "initial assumption was incorrect" to introduce a correction or revision of a previous idea. For example, "Our "initial assumption" about the market size "was incorrect", leading us to revise our sales projections."

What are some alternatives to saying "initial assumption was incorrect"?

Alternatives include phrases like "original hypothesis was wrong", "first thought was mistaken", or "early supposition proved false", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "initial assumption was incorrect" or "original assumption was incorrect"?

Both "initial assumption was incorrect" and "original assumption was incorrect" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably. The choice depends on personal preference and the specific context. "Initial" emphasizes the beginning, while "original" emphasizes the source.

What does it mean when someone says their "initial assumption was incorrect"?

It means that their first belief, idea, or expectation about something turned out to be wrong based on new information, evidence, or analysis. It implies a correction or adjustment in thinking.