understandable error

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "understandable error" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a mistake that is reasonable or justifiable given the circumstances. Example: "While reviewing the report, I noticed an understandable error in the calculations that can happen to anyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

I wish to correct Craig Wolff on one understandable error.

The New York Times

The flowers of the type species, Gloxinia perennis, are outwardly similar to those of S. speciosa, and Loddiges' understandable error accounts for the common name still in use today (Sinningia Nees was not erected until 1825, but he did choose the correct family).

AoB PLANTS

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Punishing voters for these wholly understandable errors makes little sense.

Huffington Post

In other words, this is not simply a matter of accidental (or co-incidental) understandable human error.

The Guardian

These understandable human errors underscore the difficulty of maintaining accuracy in this vast and largely homogeneous continent, particularly in the days before GPS.

The New York Times

With respect to the latter property, empirical studies have demonstrated that block-structured process models are generally more understandable and less error-prone than unstructured ones.

Data & Knowledge Engineering

Or were the errors understandable and correctable?

Huffington Post

Dr. Galbraith's error is understandable, and common.

The New Yorker

The error was understandable, because hundreds of organizations have chosen the name Bauhaus: from a Hong Kong furniture store and a solar energy conference in Frankfurt, to a Madrid investment bank and a hostel in the Belgian city of Bruges.

The New York Times - Arts

This is understandable as the numerical error is dominated by the shock hypersurface.

Computational Astrophysics and Cosmology

But the panel said that some of the errors were "understandable," and largely confined itself to suggesting ways to improve the regulatory structure instead of assigning personal responsibility for the fiasco.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to use a more formal expression, consider using "excusable mistake" or "justifiable error" instead.

Common error

While "understandable error" is acceptable, overuse in formal writing can sound casual. Opt for more precise terms like "justifiable oversight" or "excusable inaccuracy" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "understandable error" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "understandable" modifies the noun "error". It describes a type of mistake that is easy to comprehend or forgive due to the circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "understandable error" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a mistake that is reasonable given the circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides various examples from reputable sources. While not extremely frequent, it is commonly found in news and media, science, and wiki contexts. For more formal or professional settings, consider alternatives like "excusable mistake" or "justifiable oversight" for increased precision. When using "understandable error", remember to balance empathy with clarity to maintain professionalism and transparency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

excusable mistake

Replaces "understandable" with "excusable", emphasizing the justifiability of the error.

forgivable error

Similar to "excusable mistake", but highlights the aspect of being able to pardon the error.

reasonable mistake

Uses "reasonable" instead of "understandable", suggesting the error was logical or expected.

justifiable mistake

Emphasizes that the error can be defended or explained with good reasons.

pardonable mistake

Highlights the aspect of being able to forgive the mistake.

explainable error

Focuses on the error having a valid explanation or reason behind it.

venial error

Implies a minor or insignificant error that is easily forgiven.

minor oversight

Downplays the error, suggesting it was a small and easily missed mistake.

trivial mistake

Similar to "minor oversight", further emphasizing the insignificance of the error.

unintentional mistake

Focuses on the error being accidental rather than deliberate.

FAQs

What does "understandable error" mean?

An "understandable error" refers to a mistake that is reasonable or justifiable given the circumstances, often due to common human limitations or situational factors.

Which is more appropriate: "understandable error" or "excusable error"?

Both "understandable error" and "excusable error" are acceptable, but "excusable error" might imply a stronger justification or reason for the mistake.

When is it appropriate to use the term "understandable error"?

It is appropriate to use "understandable error" when you want to acknowledge that a mistake was made but also show empathy or understanding towards the person who made it, recognizing that the error could have easily happened to anyone.

What are some alternative phrases for "understandable error"?

Some alternative phrases include "reasonable mistake", "justifiable mistake", or "excusable mistake", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.