this is an error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is an error" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in any text or conversation whenever you need to express that something is incorrect. For example, you could write in an essay: "I tried to solve the equation, but this is an error."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

This is an error.

Independent

(Kristof) This is an error of fact.

The New York Times

But this is an error.

The Guardian - Opinion

"This is an error I will never make again".

The New York Times

But this is an error, semantically and substantively.

The New York Times

In any case, I don't believe this is an error … this is something orchestrated".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

We do not, however, need to look as far as Australia to realize that this is an error-prone time of year.

The New York Times

This is an error-prone procedure that in turn, is the main reason of the large number of utility strikes even after the one-call procedure is followed.

Visualization in Engineering

As this is an error-prone process (especially in the case of SH3-domains, where peptides are proline-rich), one risks to introduce a significant amount of noise and obtain under performing models.

Bioinformatics

This was an error.

The New Yorker

"This was an error of professional judgment".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When pointing out an error, provide a clear explanation of what the mistake is and how it can be corrected. This avoids ambiguity and promotes understanding.

Common error

Avoid simply stating "this is an error" without explaining the nature or source of the error. Always provide specific details to clarify the issue and prevent further confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is an error" functions as a statement used to identify and point out a mistake or inaccuracy. Ludwig examples illustrate its usage in various contexts, from technical errors to errors in judgment.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

35%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is an error" is a common and grammatically correct way to point out a mistake or inaccuracy. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and general communication. When using this phrase, it's best practice to provide context to clearly explain the error. Related phrases include "that's incorrect" and "that's a mistake". Remember, providing specific details about the error enhances understanding and helps prevent further confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that's incorrect

Uses a more direct term, "incorrect", to state something is wrong.

that's a mistake

Substitutes "error" with "mistake", indicating an unintentional wrong action or judgment.

that's an inaccuracy

Replaces "error" with "inaccuracy", focusing on the lack of precision.

that's not right

Uses a less formal way to express something is wrong.

that's a fallacy

Replaces "error" with "fallacy", highlighting a flaw in reasoning.

there's a flaw here

Identifies a more general issue with "flaw" instead of a specific "error".

that's a misunderstanding

Highlights a lack of correct understanding.

there's something amiss

Indicates something is not as it should be, but without a strong suggestion of a clear mistake.

that's a slip-up

Emphasizes a minor or careless mistake.

that's a defect

Indicates a fault or imperfection.

FAQs

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

You can use "this is an error" to point out a mistake or inaccuracy in a statement, calculation, or process. For example, "The calculation is incorrect; "this is an error" that needs to be corrected."

What can I say instead of "this is an error"?

You can use alternatives like "that's incorrect", "that's a mistake", or "that's an inaccuracy" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "this is an error" or "there is an error"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct. "This is an error" is slightly more direct, while "there is an error" is slightly more formal. The choice depends on the context and your desired tone.

When should I use "this was an error" instead of "this is an error"?

"This was an error" should be used when referring to a past mistake, whereas ""this is an error"" should be used for a present or ongoing mistake. For example, "The miscalculation occurred last week; "this was an error" in the initial report."