Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
performed in error
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "performed in error" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action or task that was carried out mistakenly or incorrectly. Example: "The transaction was performed in error, and we need to reverse it immediately."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Alternative expressions(1)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
2 human-written examples
One would have to oppose capital punishment which is not only contemptuous of human life but has often demonstrably been performed in error.
News & Media
One would have to oppose capital punishment — which is not only contemptuous of human life but has often demonstrably been performed in error.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
58 human-written examples
Bars represent means following three independent experiments performed in duplicate, error bars represent standard deviation.
Science & Research
The results shown are averages from two biological replicates each performed in duplicates; error bars indicate the standard deviation.
Science
qPCR was performed in quadruplicate (error bars ± SD).
Science
Assays were performed in triplicate (error bars ± SD).
Science
Experiments were performed in triplicate; error bars represent S.D.
Science
Anchorage-independent colony formation assays were performed in triplicate (error bars ± SD).
Science
Assays were performed in triplicate (error bars ± SD). (I ) SHP-2 levels were assayed by Western blot in TL-HMEC lysates from (H ).
Science
Assays were performed in triplicate (error bars ± SD). (E ) PVRL4-expressing TL-HMECs were assayed for clustering in the presence of the indicated antibodies or isotype controls.
Science
All PTP assays were performed in triplicate; error bars and "±" values represent the standard deviations of at least three independent experiments unless noted otherwise.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing a procedural mistake, use "performed in error" to clearly indicate that an action was carried out incorrectly, necessitating correction or revision. This is especially relevant in formal reports or when documenting incidents.
Common error
Avoid using "performed in error" passively. Always clarify who or what "performed" the action and the specific nature of the "error". Provide context so the reader understands what action should have been taken instead. Avoid the passive voice without specifying the entity that performed the error.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "performed in error" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate that an action was carried out incorrectly or mistakenly. This is supported by Ludwig examples where the phrase describes how an action was completed.
Frequent in
Science
50%
News & Media
50%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Academia
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "performed in error" is a grammatically correct way to indicate that an action was carried out incorrectly. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While relatively rare, its usage is more common in scientific and news contexts, often to describe procedural mistakes or failures. Alternatives include "carried out by mistake" or "executed erroneously". When using "performed in error", ensure clarity by specifying who performed the action and the nature of the error. Using this phrase correctly helps maintain precision and clarity in reporting or documentation.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
carried out by mistake
Replaces "performed" with "carried out" and "in error" with "by mistake", focusing on the accidental nature of the action.
executed erroneously
Uses a more formal verb, "executed", and the adverb "erroneously" to emphasize the incorrect execution.
done incorrectly
Simple and direct, focusing on the incorrect manner in which the action was done.
effected in error
Uses "effected" a more formal synonym of "performed", without changing the core meaning.
committed mistakenly
Emphasizes the mistake in performing the action. "Committed" is more suited for errors or misdeeds.
actioned incorrectly
Uses "actioned" as a verb to describe the incorrect implementation of something.
implemented wrongly
Focuses on the incorrect implementation or application of a process or task.
conducted improperly
Replaces "performed" with "conducted", indicating the improper way in which the action was carried out.
realized incorrectly
Highlights the incorrect realization or execution of a plan or action.
brought about erroneously
Focuses on how something was erroneously brought into existence or action.
FAQs
How can I use "performed in error" in a sentence?
You can use "performed in error" to describe an action that was carried out incorrectly. For example, "The transaction was "performed in error", and we need to reverse it immediately."
What's a more formal way to say "performed in error"?
A more formal alternative is "executed erroneously". This emphasizes the incorrect execution of the action.
What's the difference between "performed in error" and "done incorrectly"?
"Done incorrectly" is a more general and less formal way of saying something was not done right, whereas ""performed in error"" suggests a procedural or specific action was mistakenly carried out.
What are some alternatives to "performed in error"?
Some alternatives include "carried out by mistake", "actioned incorrectly", or "effected in error".
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested