possibility of mistake

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "possibility of mistake" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to talk about a potential error that could be made. For example: "There is a possibility of mistake when filing out your tax forms, so double check before submitting them."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In the debate, the main focus has been on the question whether the dispositionalist can account for the possibility of mistake or error.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Grand plans admit no possibility of mistakes or failures, or the chance to learn from them.

The New Yorker

"We're looking at the possibility of mistaken identity, a drugs debt or a domestic type thing," he added.

The Guardian

They offer a finite number of yes-no choices, so there is no possibility of mistaking voter intent.

The New York Times

"From social science research to the review of actual police lineups, from laboratory experiments to DNA exonerations, the record proves that the possibility of mistaken identification is real.

The New York Times

To deal with this issue, the government uses large samples, which reduce the possibility of mistakes, and it also provides some guidance on how likely these are.

The New Yorker

But the possibility of mistakes tomorrow is a poor justification for inaction today.It is not just the substance of the criticisms that matter, it is also their source.

The Economist

The investigation is following several lines, including the possibility of mistaken identity, said Special Agent Andrea Simmons, a spokeswoman for the F.B.I. field office in El Paso, which is helping Mexican investigators.

The New York Times

Once the possibility of mistakes is admitted, Gödel's theorem become irrelevant.

SEP

This methodology has been adapted to enable tool's users to enter a large dataset required for the computations eliminating the possibility of mistakes.

Applied Soft Computing

In economics the institution most capable of preventing persistent mistakes is the same that allows the possibility of mistakes in the first place: open and competitive financial markets.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing scientific or technical processes, acknowledge the "possibility of mistake" to demonstrate a thorough understanding of potential limitations.

Common error

Avoid claiming absolute certainty when describing outcomes. Acknowledging the "possibility of mistake" maintains credibility and reflects realistic expectations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "possibility of mistake" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence or clause. It denotes the potential for errors to occur, a concept applicable across diverse fields. As Ludwig AI says, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

6%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "possibility of mistake" is a versatile noun phrase used to acknowledge the potential for errors across various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely accepted. Its frequency is categorized as "common", and it appears most often in News & Media and Science contexts. When using this phrase, consider alternatives such as "chance of error" or "risk of error" to fine-tune the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember that overstating certainty can undermine your credibility; acknowledge the "possibility of mistake" to present a balanced and realistic perspective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chance of error

This alternative uses "chance" instead of "possibility", implying a similar likelihood of an error occurring.

risk of error

This alternative replaces "possibility" with "risk", highlighting the potential negative consequences of a mistake.

potential for error

This alternative uses "potential" to emphasize the inherent capacity for mistakes to happen.

likelihood of error

This alternative focuses on the probability of an error, using "likelihood" instead of "possibility".

prospect of error

This alternative uses "prospect" suggesting a possible future occurrence of an error.

probability of a mistake

This alternative emphasizes the statistical aspect of an error occurring.

room for error

This alternative suggests that mistakes can occur without serious consequences.

margin for error

Similar to "room for error", this phrase implies a degree of tolerance for mistakes.

scope for mistakes

This alternative suggests the extent to which errors can happen.

source of potential error

This alternative focuses on identifying where the error could come from

FAQs

How can I use "possibility of mistake" in a sentence?

You can use "possibility of mistake" to acknowledge potential errors. For example, "Despite careful planning, there is always a "possibility of mistake"."

What's a formal alternative to "possibility of mistake"?

A more formal alternative to "possibility of mistake" is "potential for error". This is often used in professional or academic contexts.

What can I say instead of "possibility of mistake" to emphasize risk?

To emphasize the risk associated with potential errors, you can use the phrase "risk of error".

How does "possibility of mistake" differ from "chance of mistake"?

While similar, "chance of mistake" suggests a more random or unpredictable occurrence, whereas "possibility of mistake" simply acknowledges that an error could occur.