the wrong window

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the wrong window" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an incorrect choice or selection, often in a literal or metaphorical sense. Example: "I accidentally opened the wrong window on my computer and lost my progress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Or who forgot his keys one time and climbed the fire escape, but went in through the wrong window — to an apartment, Mr. Hayden said, that happened to belong to "a New Rochelle cop".

The New York Times

Ideally they need to get four or five in and let four or five go but it is the wrong window to be doing that kind of thing.

BBC

Another time she tried to smash my window with a rock, but she was so drunk that she hit the wrong window on the wrong street.

Vice

Perhaps we have focused on the wrong window of exposure.

Breast Cancer Research

If you're sneaking into a friends room and you accidentally go in through the wrong window and end up in their dad/mom's room (or worse get the wrong house) have a code name ready for you and your friend.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

America has been peeping into the wrong windows.

The New York Times - Style

He arrived on the designated morning to find that workmen had erected scaffolding in front of the wrong windows.

The New York Times - Arts

Many of the four or five hundred people who had come to Kennedy Airport didn't know when the plane landed because they were looking through the wrong windows.

The New Yorker

He estimates that 75% of the people who came into the station during the war to buy tickets headed for the wrong windows.

The New Yorker

"If you need a padlock to secure the gate on your window, it is the wrong gate for that window," said Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen.

The New York Times

His wild eyes were like bees trapped on the wrong side of a window, bouncing along the glass.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the wrong window" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly establishes what makes the window "wrong". For example, "Focusing on short-term gains is like looking through "the wrong window" when building a long-term strategy".

Common error

Avoid assuming the reader understands the metaphorical significance of "the wrong window" without providing sufficient context. Clearly articulate why the chosen window (or course of action) is incorrect or inappropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the wrong window" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It identifies a specific window that is incorrect, inappropriate, or mistaken in a given context. According to Ludwig, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

7%

Social Media

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the wrong window" is a common noun phrase used to denote an incorrect choice, literally or metaphorically. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It appears frequently in News & Media, Wiki, and Science contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by providing context that elucidates why the "window" is deemed "wrong". Alternatives include "the incorrect window" or "the mistaken window", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the incorrect window

Replaces "wrong" with a more formal synonym, maintaining the core meaning.

the mistaken window

Emphasizes the error in choosing the window, slightly altering the tone.

the unintended window

Highlights that the window was not the one intended, adding a nuance of purpose.

the erroneous window

Uses a stronger, more formal term for "wrong", suitable for technical contexts.

the unsuitable window

Suggests that the window is inappropriate for a specific purpose or situation.

the improper window

Similar to "unsuitable", but implies a violation of rules or norms.

the faulty window

Shifts the focus to a defect or malfunction in the window itself.

the incorrect access point

Emphasizes the window as a point of entry, broadening the context.

the wrong portal

Uses a more metaphorical term for "window", implying a gateway or passage.

the wrong opening

Generalizes the term to any kind of opening, not specifically a window.

FAQs

How can I use "the wrong window" in a sentence?

You can use "the wrong window" to describe a literal error, such as climbing through "the wrong window" of a building, or a metaphorical error, such as focusing on "the wrong window" of opportunity.

What's the difference between "the wrong window" and "the wrong door"?

While both phrases indicate a mistake, "the wrong window" often implies a more subtle or unexpected error, whereas "the wrong door" typically suggests a more direct or obvious misdirection. Both depends on context.

What can I say instead of "the wrong window"?

You can use alternatives like "the incorrect window", "the mistaken window", or "the unintended window" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "the wrong window"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase follows standard English grammar rules and is commonly used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.