there is an error

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence "there is an error" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a mistake or a problem, either in a literal or figurative sense. For example, "I thought I had checked it for errors, but there is an error in the document."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is an error on the Krieghoff".

The New Yorker

Apparently there is an error in the printing.

The New Yorker

"If there is an error, I know it immediately," Mr. Sloan said.

The New York Times - Tech

"If there is an error," he said, "it is mine, and I accept it".

The New York Times

From one point of view, perhaps a narrow one, there is an error of scale here.

The New Yorker

There is an error in Rules & Procedures, p. 437: two or more caucuses do not equal a Russian mountain range..

The New Yorker

There is an error in Rules & Procedures, p. 437: two or more caucuses do not equal a Russian mountain range.

The New Yorker

The law permits a full hand recount if there is "an error in the vote tabulation which could affect the outcome of the election".

The New York Times - Books

However, the sense of injustice is magnified tenfold if there is an error from the third umpire, which is visible to all.

The Guardian - Sport

Alasdair Murray of CentreForum made the case this way: "There is an error whereby birthrate is being blamed for future economic woes.

The New York Times - Magazine

If there is an error, even a puzzling metaphysical one as to the actual existence of a specific bottle, it is invariably the retailer's boob, not the column's.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "there is an error", be specific about the type and location of the error to facilitate correction. For example, instead of just saying "there is an error", specify "there is a grammatical error in the second paragraph".

Common error

Avoid using "there is an error" without providing any context or details. This can leave the audience confused and unable to address the issue effectively. Always strive to provide specific information about the nature and location of the error.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there is an error" functions as an existential clause, asserting the existence of a mistake or inaccuracy. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. This phrase introduces the presence of an issue that requires attention or correction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

34%

Formal & Business

24%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "there is an error" is a common and grammatically sound way to indicate the presence of a mistake or inaccuracy. Ludwig AI confirms this, showcasing its frequent use across various domains, particularly in scientific and news contexts. While simple, clarity is essential: specifying the error's nature and location ensures effective correction. Although "there is an error" is a general phrase that can be used across registers, neutral or formal writing benefits from its use. Consider using alternatives like "there is a mistake" or "an issue has arisen" based on your specific needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

there is a mistake

Replaces "error" with "mistake", a direct synonym, maintaining the same structure and meaning.

an error exists

Rephrases to highlight the existence of an error, shifting the focus slightly.

a mistake is present

Substitutes "error" with "mistake" and uses "is present" instead of "there is", slightly altering the phrasing.

there's an inaccuracy

Replaces "error" with "inaccuracy", emphasizing a lack of precision or correctness.

an issue has arisen

Shifts from a specific error to a more general "issue", broadening the scope of the problem.

something went wrong

Indicates a problem without specifying the nature of the error, generalizing the statement.

there's a problem

Similar to "something went wrong", but more direct in stating the existence of an issue.

a fault is detected

Focuses on the detection of a fault, emphasizing the identification of the error.

an oversight occurred

Highlights that the error was due to an omission or failure to notice something.

a glitch appeared

Suggests a minor or temporary malfunction, often used in technical contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "there is an error" in a sentence?

Use "there is an error" to point out a mistake or inaccuracy. For example, "After reviewing the data, I found that "there is an error" in the calculation." You can also specify the type of error, such as "there is a typographical error".

What are some alternatives to "there is an error"?

Alternatives include "there is a mistake", "a mistake is present", or "an issue has arisen". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Which is correct: "there is an error" or "there are errors"?

The correct form depends on whether you are referring to a single error or multiple errors. Use ""there is an error"" for a single mistake and "there are errors" when referring to more than one.

What's the difference between "there is an error" and "there is a problem"?

While both indicate an issue, ""there is an error"" usually refers to a specific mistake or inaccuracy, often in data, calculations, or text. "there is a problem" is more general and can refer to a wider range of issues or difficulties.