loose error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "loose error" is not correct in standard written English; the correct term is "lapse error" or "loose end." You can use it when referring to an error that is not tightly controlled or is somewhat vague in nature.
Example: "The report contained a loose error that led to confusion among the team members."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

It was a loose error, a gift, and it may have been due to the mental fatigue of having to fight so hard to get back into the match.

The New York Times

What I mean is that it only took a loose error or two from Sharapova, in the third game, to spin the match 180 degrees and transform an extremely nervy Azarenka into an extremely imposing one -- as well as the new, Slam-full No. 1 player in the world.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Thiem started to get frustrated, to hit loose errors.

The New Yorker

Instead of turning inward and berating herself after loose errors, she remained calm.

The New Yorker

But then I just had some loose errors and she played some good points.

Independent

If so, he can cut out the loose errors that hurt him in the big matches.

The New York Times

Her footwork was not at its usual level and too many loose errors helped Kerber to get over her early nerves.

The Guardian - Sport

There have been a few nice rallies from both, but most of this match has been made up of short points abbreviated by loose errors.

The New York Times

It doesn't account for the way she played this week, in the second round of the Open, when she flew out to a 6 2, 4 1 lead against Mirjana Lučić-Baroni and then tightened, hitting loose errors that let Lučić-Baroni back into the set.

The New Yorker

A 15th consecutive Grand Slam semi-final had looked there for the taking when the Serb rolled through the first set thanks to some loose errors from Wawrinka in game six, but a moment of brilliance turned the match.

BBC

A quick-fire service game put him back in front before the under-pressure Djokovic finally succumbed, three loose errors handing over his service game for the fourth and final time.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more precise and grammatically sound alternatives such as "careless mistake", "negligent error", or "oversight" to ensure clarity and credibility in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "loose" as a generic descriptor for errors. "Loose" typically implies a lack of control or precision, not simply an inaccuracy. Use more appropriate adjectives like "careless", "inaccurate", or "unintentional" to describe the nature of the mistake.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "loose error" functions as a noun phrase intended to describe a type of mistake. However, according to Ludwig AI, the phrasing is not correct in standard written English. It is used to characterize an error as imprecise or uncontrolled.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "loose error" attempts to describe an imprecise or careless mistake, but Ludwig AI identifies it as incorrect in standard English. While some examples exist in news and scientific contexts, it's advisable to use more standard alternatives like "careless mistake", "negligent error", or "oversight" for clarity and grammatical correctness. The analysis reveals that while the phrase may be understood, it lacks precision and could undermine the credibility of your writing. Therefore, opting for the suggested alternatives ensures better communication and adherence to standard English conventions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

careless mistake

Replaces "loose" with "careless", emphasizing the lack of attention or precision.

negligent error

Substitutes "loose" with "negligent", highlighting the failure to exercise reasonable care.

inaccurate mistake

Emphasizes the lack of correctness in the error.

minor blunder

Replaces "error" with "blunder", suggesting a less severe mistake.

oversight

A more concise term for a mistake due to inattention.

slip-up

An informal term for a small mistake.

lapse in judgment

Focuses on the faulty decision-making that led to the error.

unforced error

Commonly used in sports, referring to an error not caused by the opponent.

technical fault

Highlights the aspect of technical inaccuracies.

isolated mistake

Indicates the error as an isolated instance.

FAQs

What is the meaning of "loose error"?

"Loose error" generally refers to a mistake that lacks precision or is made carelessly. However, it's not considered standard English; alternatives like "careless mistake" are better.

What can I say instead of "loose error"?

Instead of "loose error", consider using phrases like "careless mistake", "negligent error", "inaccurate mistake", or simply "oversight" depending on the specific context.

Is "loose error" grammatically correct?

No, "loose error" is not considered grammatically correct in standard written English. It's better to use alternatives like "careless mistake" or "unforced error".

When is it appropriate to use "loose error"?

While some sources might use "loose error", it's generally advisable to avoid it in formal writing. Opt for more standard and precise alternatives such as "minor blunder" or "lapse in judgment" to ensure clarity and accuracy.