simple mistake

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "simple mistake" is correct and commonly used in written English.
You can use it to refer to a minor or easily fixable error that has been made. For example: - "I apologize for the simple mistake on page 2 of the report." - "Despite our best efforts, a simple mistake was made in the calculation." - "Please double-check your work for any simple mistakes before submitting it." In all of these examples, the phrase "simple mistake" is used to acknowledge a small error that was made, without placing blame or making it seem like a major issue.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A simple mistake.

The New York Times

It was a simple mistake.

The New York Times

I hope it is my simple mistake.

Yale University

"A simple mistake was made," he said.

The New York Times

Mr. London framed his client's wrongdoing as a simple mistake.

The New York Times

And this was not a simple mistake by the police.

The Economist

North Brunswick It was, Noor Sial said, a simple mistake.

The New York Times

The White House said the episode was a simple mistake.

The New York Times

I don't think it is a simple mistake.

The Guardian

Unless we made a simple mistake, of course.

The Guardian - Sport

We would not presume to ascribe this difference to a simple mistake in draftsmanship.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "simple mistake", ensure the context clarifies that the error is indeed minor and easily rectified. This avoids misinterpretations, especially in sensitive situations.

Common error

Avoid using "simple mistake" to downplay errors that have significant consequences. Acknowledge the impact first before characterizing the mistake as simple.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simple mistake" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates it's a common way to describe an unintentional error that is not complex or consequential. Examples show it frequently used to downplay or explain away errors.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

12%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "simple mistake" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a minor, easily rectifiable error. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in register, it's crucial to consider the specific setting and potential consequences when using this phrase. Alternatives such as "minor error" or "slight oversight" may be more appropriate in certain formal contexts. Always ensure that characterizing an error as a "simple mistake" doesn't downplay its potential impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor error

Focuses on the insignificance of the mistake.

small error

Underlines the size and scope of the error.

slight oversight

Emphasizes the unintentional nature of overlooking something.

inadvertent error

Stresses that the error was unintentional and not planned.

unintentional slip-up

Highlights the accidental nature of the mistake.

trivial blunder

Highlights the lack of importance of the error.

harmless mistake

Emphasizes the lack of negative consequences from the mistake.

negligible mistake

Stresses the unimportance or insignificance of the error.

careless slip

Focuses on the lack of attention that caused the error.

forgivable error

Highlights how easy it is to forgive the mistake.

FAQs

How can I use "simple mistake" in a sentence?

You can use "simple mistake" to describe a minor error. For example, "The error in the calculation was a "simple mistake" and has been corrected."

What are some alternatives to "simple mistake"?

Alternatives include "minor error", "slight oversight", or "trivial blunder", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "simple mistake" in a formal setting?

While "simple mistake" is generally acceptable, in highly formal settings, you might opt for alternatives like "inadvertent error" or "slight oversight" to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "simple mistake" and "serious error"?

"Simple mistake" refers to a minor, easily correctable error, while "serious error" indicates a significant error with potentially severe consequences. The choice depends on the impact and nature of the mistake.