major error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "major error" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant mistake or fault in a process, document, or action. Example: "The report was rejected due to a major error in the calculations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Did the investigators make a major error?

The New York Times

Varoufakis calls that decision a "major error".

The Guardian

Geometric errors are the major error sources of machine tools.

International Journal of Machine Tools and Manufacture

"This is a very major error of judgment," he told a Commons select committee.

The Guardian

It was a major error, compounding his image as an elitist snob.

The Guardian

Hitchcock has made one major error in his near three years at the club.

The Guardian - Sport

I thought the referee made a major, major error," the Everton manager said.

Independent

Privately, Williams has admitted that letting Button go to Renault was a major error of judgement.

Independent

Tropospheric delay is a major error source in positioning by Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSSs).

Measurement

This a major error of assessment, because it underestimates the passion of football as well as its geopolitical dimension".

The Guardian - Sport

Professor Garcia predicted that only "a major error or blunder" would cost Mr. Richardson a victory in November.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "major error", clearly specify what the error is and its impact to provide context and clarity for your reader.

Common error

Avoid using "major error" for minor mistakes. Reserve this phrase for errors with substantial consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "major error" functions as a noun phrase, where "major" modifies the noun "error". According to Ludwig, it denotes a significant mistake or fault. It commonly serves as the subject or object of a sentence, highlighting the presence of a considerable mistake.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "major error" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a significant mistake. As Ludwig highlights, it appears frequently in news, scientific, and business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the severity of the error and provide sufficient context. Alternatives such as "significant mistake" or "serious blunder" can be used for variety or to emphasize different aspects of the mistake. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is widely accepted and understood, making it a reliable choice for clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant mistake

Replaces "major" with "significant", emphasizing the importance of the error.

serious blunder

Substitutes "error" with "blunder", suggesting a more careless or foolish mistake.

critical fault

Replaces both words, highlighting the severity and potential consequences.

grave oversight

Implies a failure to notice or prevent something important, carrying serious implications.

substantial lapse

Suggests a temporary failure in judgment or attention, with significant repercussions.

glaring inaccuracy

Focuses on a factual error that is easily noticeable.

major failing

Emphasizes a deficiency or weakness.

considerable flaw

Highlights a defect or imperfection that significantly impacts quality.

serious defect

Emphasizes the imperfection and the seriousness of the failure.

egregious mistake

Highlights an error that is particularly shocking or outstanding.

FAQs

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

You can use "major error" to describe a significant mistake, such as, "The project was delayed due to a "major error" in the initial planning phase".

What are some alternatives to "major error"?

Alternatives include "significant mistake", "serious blunder", or "critical fault" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "major error" and "minor error"?

"Major error" indicates a significant mistake with substantial consequences, while "minor error" refers to a less important mistake with minimal impact.

Is it redundant to say "major major error"?

While grammatically acceptable for emphasis, using "major "major error"" can sound repetitive. Consider rephrasing for clarity, such as "a very significant error".