small margin of error

USAGE SUMMARY

"small margin of error" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where there is very little room for mistakes or inaccuracies, such as when conducting a survey or experiment. For example, "By using a complex algorithm, the researchers were able to reduce the margin of error to a very small amount."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

There's such a small margin of error".

The New York Times - Sports

That left McConnell with a small margin of error.

The Guardian

"There is a very small margin of error in preparing and racing.

The New York Times - Sports

"There's going to be a very small margin of error between the teams".

The New York Times - Sports

Moreover Hussey only required a small margin of error from Swann to capitalise with another pulled boundary.

The Guardian - Sport

By going for the lines and shooting for the corners, he has a very small margin of error in his game.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Just as differential analyzers can be imitated by digital computers to within quite small margins of error, so too, the conversation of human beings can be imitated by digital computers to margins of error that would not be detected by ordinary interrogators playing the imitation game.

SEP

To get rid of that vanishingly smaller margin of error, you're talking millions and millions of miles of driving experience," Keith said.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

This means that in effect we have a much larger sample than in any one poll, and hence a much smaller margin of error.

The New York Times

By trying to allow for that smaller margin of error it is jeopardising the entire UDRS system by fuelling the BCCI's argument that the technology cannot be trusted.

The Guardian - Sport

Exit polls provide remarkably quick data on elections that comes with a smaller and smaller margin of error as an election night passes, telling us who came out to vote for which candidate and why.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "small margin of error", quantify it whenever possible. Instead of saying 'the measurements had a small margin of error', specify 'the measurements had a margin of error of ±0.5%' to provide a clearer understanding of the accuracy.

Common error

Avoid using "small margin of error" when the error rate is actually significant. Ensure that the context genuinely reflects a high degree of accuracy; otherwise, consider using phrases like "some margin of error" or "noticeable margin of error."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small margin of error" primarily functions as a noun phrase that modifies another noun, often referring to measurements, calculations, or predictions. As noted by Ludwig, it accurately describes scenarios where minimal deviation from accuracy is permitted or expected.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

36%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "small margin of error" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate a high degree of precision or accuracy. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability across diverse contexts. Its frequency is notably high in News & Media and Science, reflecting its importance in reporting reliable results and experimental findings. While alternatives like "tight tolerance" or "little room for error" exist, the key is to quantify the error whenever possible to provide clarity and avoid overstating precision. By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate usage, writers can effectively communicate the accuracy and reliability of their information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

little room for error

Emphasizes the consequences of mistakes, indicating a high level of precision needed.

tight tolerance

Focuses on the strictness of acceptable variation, emphasizing precision.

narrow leeway

Highlights the limited freedom to deviate from a standard or expectation.

critical accuracy

Stresses the importance of precision, often used in contexts where accuracy is paramount.

minimal acceptable deviation

More formal and technical, stressing the quantified amount of permissible variance.

exacting precision

Implies a need for extremely high accuracy and attention to detail.

fine line

Indicates a delicate balance where small changes can lead to significant consequences.

slight permissible variation

Focuses on the allowable degree of change, suitable for technical contexts.

slim chance of error

Highlights the low probability of mistakes, emphasizing reliability.

negligible error rate

Emphasizes the low frequency of errors, often used in statistical or technical reports.

FAQs

How can I use "small margin of error" in a sentence?

You can use "small margin of error" to describe situations requiring high precision. For example, "The algorithm calculates results with a "small margin of error"" or "The experiment was designed to minimize the "small margin of error"".

What are some alternatives to "small margin of error"?

Alternatives include "tight tolerance", "little room for error", or "minimal acceptable deviation". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "small margin of error" or "negligible margin of error"?

The choice depends on the degree of accuracy. If the error is truly insignificant, "negligible margin of error" may be appropriate. Otherwise, "small margin of error" is generally suitable when the error exists but is minimal.

How does sample size affect the "small margin of error" in a study?

Generally, a larger sample size leads to a "smaller margin of error" because it provides a more representative view of the population being studied. This reduces the likelihood of statistical errors.