to err is human

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence 'to err is human' is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to emphasize that it is a normal part of life to make mistakes, and it is okay to do so. For example: "We all make mistakes - to err is human, after all."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Conclusion: To err is human but to admit our humanness and apologize requires courage and strength of character.

Huffington Post

SH, High Wycombe, Bucks To err is human, but for a company to absolve itself from blame because of its humanity is almost admirable in its brazenness.

The Guardian - Money

"To err is human, to forgive divine".

The New York Times

He reminds us that "to err is human".

The New Yorker

To err is human, and to forgive divine.

The New York Times

To paraphrase: To err is human; to apologize is presidential.

The New York Times

"To err is human, to cover up is unforgiveable".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

‎To err is human.

HuffPost

"To err is human...".

The Guardian - Arts

Since the Institute of Medicine report To Err Is Human[ 1], medical adverse events (AEs) have been increasingly focused.

BMC Health Services Research

However, we must always remember that 'to err is human' and nobody is perfect".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to err is human", follow it up with a suggestion for improvement or a path to resolution to show a balanced perspective.

Common error

While "to err is human" is a well-known saying, avoid overusing it, especially in formal writing. Consider more specific and nuanced ways to acknowledge mistakes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to err is human" functions as an aphorism, expressing a universal truth about human nature. It's commonly used to offer understanding or excuse a mistake. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely recognized.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to err is human" is a well-established idiom that acknowledges the inevitability of mistakes as part of the human experience. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. The phrase serves to promote understanding and forgiveness when errors occur. While very common, it is important to avoid overuse and consider specific, nuanced language when acknowledging mistakes in formal writing. Consider alternatives like "everyone makes mistakes" or "nobody's perfect" to avoid cliché. When using the phrase, pairing it with solutions or a plan for improvement demonstrates a balanced perspective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

humanum est errare

The Latin origin of the phrase.

it's only human to make mistakes

Adds emphasis on human nature.

we're only human

Simple and common expression of fallibility.

everyone makes mistakes

Focuses on the universality of making mistakes.

we all make errors

Similar to "everyone makes mistakes", but uses a more formal term.

mistakes are inevitable

Highlights the unavoidable nature of errors.

nobody's perfect

Emphasizes the lack of flawlessness in individuals.

fallibility is part of being human

Highlights human fallibility.

it is in our nature to make errors

Highlights the inherent nature of errors.

making mistakes is part of the human condition

Emphasizes the inherent part of human life.

FAQs

What does the phrase "to err is human" mean?

The phrase "to err is human" means that making mistakes is a natural and inevitable part of being human.

How can I use "to err is human" in a sentence?

You can use "to err is human" to acknowledge a mistake, often followed by a call for understanding or forgiveness. For example, "We made a mistake in the calculations, but "to err is human"; let's correct it now."

What's a more formal way to say "to err is human"?

A more formal way to express the same idea is to say "human fallibility is inevitable" or "mistakes are an inherent aspect of the human condition".

Is it okay to use "to err is human" in professional settings?

Yes, but use it judiciously. It's suitable when acknowledging a mistake and seeking understanding, but avoid overusing it. Consider pairing it with a proactive solution to maintain professionalism.