is an error of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is an error of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is a mistake or a fault related to a specific aspect or element. Example: "The report contains a significant error of calculation that needs to be addressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

The universe is an error of scale.

The New Yorker

(Kristof) This is an error of fact.

The New York Times

The very title is an error of logical category.

The Guardian - Books

This is an error of diplomatic tone that risks serious consequences.

The New Yorker

From one point of view, perhaps a narrow one, there is an error of scale here.

The New Yorker

But compared with the hill in your back yard, Mt. Everest is an error of scale.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

"This was an error of professional judgment".

The Guardian

"It was an error of terminology and interpretation," she said.

The Guardian

To me it was an error of judgment.

The Guardian

Its reaction was an error of colossal proportions.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It was an error of perception on my part.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is an error of", ensure that you clearly specify what type of error is being referred to, such as "is an error of judgment", "is an error of scale", or "is an error of fact" for clarity.

Common error

Don't use "is an error of" without specifying what kind of error it is. Saying "that is an error of some sort" lacks precision. Always clarify the nature of the mistake to maintain clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is an error of" functions as a copular verb followed by a noun phrase. It serves to identify or characterize a subject as being a specific type of mistake or inaccuracy. This grammatical function is evident in Ludwig's examples, where various subjects are described in terms of the type of error they represent.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

28%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is an error of" serves to identify and categorize specific types of mistakes or flaws. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It is most commonly found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, and its usage ranges from neutral to formal registers. To ensure clarity, it's best practice to specify the type of error being discussed, such as "is an error of judgment" or "is an error of fact".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is an inaccuracy within

This alternative focuses on the lack of precision or correctness within a specific context.

involves a mistake about

This phrase focuses on the involvement of a mistake concerning a subject.

constitutes a mistake in

This alternative uses a more formal verb, "constitutes", emphasizing the presence of an error in something.

embodies an error concerning

Similar to "constitutes", this is more formal and emphasizes that the error is inherent or embodied within something.

is a miscalculation regarding

This specifies that the error involves a mistake in calculation or estimation.

represents a flaw in

This alternative highlights the presence of a defect or imperfection rather than a general error.

reflects an error with respect to

This suggests that the error is indicative of a problem or issue related to something.

is a fallacy related to

This alternative indicates a deceptive or misleading belief or argument related to the matter.

is a blunder concerning

This phrase employs the word "blunder", suggesting a more significant or careless mistake.

is a lapse in

This suggests a temporary failure or slip in judgment or accuracy.

FAQs

How can I use "is an error of" in a sentence?

You can use "is an error of" to point out a specific kind of mistake. For example, "That calculation "is an error of" addition", or "Believing that all swans are white "is an error of" generalization".

What are some alternatives to saying "is an error of"?

Alternatives include phrases like "constitutes a mistake in", "represents a flaw in", or "is a miscalculation regarding", depending on the specific context you're referring to.

What is the difference between "is an error of judgment" and "is a mistake of judgment"?

While both phrases are similar, "is an error of judgment" often implies a more serious lapse in decision-making, whereas "is a mistake of judgment" can refer to a more minor misstep. The choice depends on the severity you wish to convey.

Is it more formal to say "is an error of" compared to "is a mistake of"?

Yes, ""is an error of"" generally carries a slightly more formal tone than "is a mistake of". The best choice depends on the context and the audience; formal reports may benefit from "error", while casual conversation may use "mistake".