no margin for error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "no margin for error" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that there is no room for mistakes in a particular situation or task. Example: "In this high-stakes operation, we have no margin for error; every detail must be executed perfectly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"There's no margin for error," he says.

The Washington Post

There's still no margin for error.

The Guardian - Sport

There will be no margin for error".

The Guardian - Sport

We have no margin for error.

Harvard Business Review

There's no margin for error in this race".

The New York Times

His gambler's stance leaves him no margin for error.

The Guardian - Sport

"There is no margin for error here," he said.

The New York Times

"There was no breathing room, no margin for error".

The New York Times

There is no margin for error on such a play.

The New York Times - Sports

"There was no margin for error," the Liverpool manager added.

The Guardian - Sport

Bowlers have no margin for error on this pitch.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the critical nature of a task, use "no margin for error" to highlight the unacceptability of mistakes. This phrase adds weight to your statement, conveying the importance of precision and accuracy.

Common error

Avoid using "no margin for error" in situations where minor errors are acceptable or expected. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and make your communication seem overly dramatic or unrealistic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "no margin for error" functions as a qualifier, emphasizing the critical nature of a situation where mistakes are unacceptable. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable English phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase “no margin for error” is a common and grammatically sound expression used to emphasize the critical nature of situations where mistakes are unacceptable. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's frequently found in news, business, and formal contexts. When writing, use it to underscore the importance of precision. Related phrases such as “"no room for mistakes"” and “"zero tolerance for errors"” can serve as alternatives, but be mindful of the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

no room for mistakes

Focuses on the absence of acceptable errors.

zero tolerance for errors

Emphasizes a strict policy against mistakes.

no allowance for mistakes

Highlights the lack of permission for errors.

not permissible to err

Formally states that making mistakes is not allowed.

utmost precision required

Highlights the need for accuracy.

perfection is a must

Emphasizes that only perfect results are acceptable.

accuracy is paramount

Stresses that accuracy is the most important factor.

no second chances

Highlights the lack of opportunity to correct mistakes.

failure is not an option

Emphasizes the importance of success and the unacceptability of failure.

must be flawless

Highlights the need for being perfect and without errors.

FAQs

How can I use "no margin for error" in a sentence?

You can use "no margin for error" to emphasize the criticality of a task or situation. For example, "In surgery, there is "no margin for error"; every action must be precise."

What are some alternatives to "no margin for error"?

Alternatives include "no room for mistakes", "zero tolerance for errors", or "utmost precision required", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "no margin for error" in everyday conversation?

While grammatically correct, "no margin for error" is best suited for situations where precision and accuracy are paramount. In casual conversation, simpler phrases like "be careful" or "pay attention" may be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "no margin for error" and "little margin for error"?

"No margin for error" implies that any mistake is unacceptable, while "little margin for error" suggests that some minor errors might be tolerated, but the situation is still highly sensitive. Therefore, "no margin of error" is stronger.