there is no margin for error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "there is no margin for error" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where precision and accuracy are critical, indicating that any mistake is unacceptable. Example: "In this high-stakes operation, there is no margin for error; every detail must be executed flawlessly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

"There is no margin for error here," he said.

The New York Times

There is no margin for error on such a play.

The New York Times - Sports

There is no margin for error in their lives.

The New York Times

"There is no margin for error," said one authority member, David H. Peirez.

The New York Times

"This is live and direct and there is no margin for error," Mr. Franco said.

The New York Times

There is no margin for error — once in orbit, a broken satellite cannot be easily fixed.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

"There's no margin for error".

The New Yorker

"There's no margin for error," he says.

The Washington Post

There's no margin for error in this race".

The New York Times

"There was no margin for error," the Liverpool manager added.

The Guardian - Sport

In Prince William Sound, there's no margin for error.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "there is no margin for error" to underscore the criticality of a situation, especially where precision is paramount. For instance, in medical, engineering, or financial contexts, emphasize the need for accuracy and meticulousness.

Common error

Avoid using "there is no margin for error" in situations where minor mistakes are acceptable. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and appear overly dramatic. Reserve it for scenarios where errors truly have significant consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there is no margin for error" functions as an emphatic assertion highlighting the critical need for precision and accuracy. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, reinforcing its function as a strong statement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "there is no margin for error" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to emphasize the critical need for accuracy. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is fit for written english and is often found in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts. While related phrases like "no room for mistakes" exist, "there is no margin for error" carries a specific weight, underscoring the severity of potential consequences. When using this phrase, consider the audience and context to ensure its impact is appropriately conveyed without being overly dramatic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

no room for mistakes

A more direct way of stating the impossibility of making errors.

zero tolerance for mistakes

Focuses on the policy or attitude towards mistakes, implying any error is unacceptable.

perfection is required

Highlights the need for flawless execution, setting a high standard of performance.

absolute precision is essential

Emphasizes the necessity of accuracy and exactness in the task or situation.

accuracy is paramount

Stresses the supreme importance of being accurate.

errors are not permissible

Formally states that mistakes cannot be allowed or tolerated.

flawless execution is a must

Highlights that only a perfect performance is acceptable.

negligence is unacceptable

Indicates that any carelessness or failure to take proper care is not allowed.

utmost care is necessary

Emphasizes the need for extreme attentiveness and caution.

mistakes carry severe consequences

Highlights the potential negative outcomes of making errors.

FAQs

How can I use "there is no margin for error" in a sentence?

Use "there is no margin for error" to emphasize the critical nature of a task or situation where even a small mistake could lead to significant negative outcomes. For example, "In surgery, "there is no margin for error"; every movement must be precise."

What are some alternatives to "there is no margin for error"?

Alternatives include phrases like "no room for mistakes", "perfection is required", or "absolute precision is essential", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "there is no margin for error"?

It's appropriate when discussing situations where accuracy and precision are crucial, and any deviation could result in serious consequences. Examples include high-stakes surgery, critical financial decisions, or aerospace engineering.

Is "there is no margin for error" too strong for everyday situations?

Yes, it can be. Using "there is no margin for error" in casual or low-stakes contexts can sound overly dramatic and out of place. Reserve this phrase for situations with genuine, significant risks associated with errors.