unforced errors

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unforced errors" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in sports, particularly in tennis, to refer to mistakes made by a player that are not caused by the opponent's skill or actions. Example: "The match was closer than it appeared, but the number of unforced errors from the player ultimately cost them the game."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He suffered unforced errors.

The New York Times - Sports

She had 21 unforced errors.

The New York Times - Sports

Keys committed 32 unforced errors.

The New York Times - Sports

He kept making unforced errors.

The New Yorker

Djokovic made 41 unforced errors.

The New York Times - Sports

They result from unforced errors.

The New York Times

Kuznetsova committed 29 unforced errors.

The New York Times - Sports

I was making unforced errors.

The New York Times - Sports

Sampras had 38 unforced errors.

The New York Times - Sports

He doesn't make unforced errors.

The Guardian - Sport

Federer had 36 unforced errors.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "unforced errors" precisely, differentiating them from errors caused by external factors or opponent pressure.

Common error

Avoid using "unforced errors" in everyday conversations or situations that lack a competitive element. Opt for simpler terms like "mistakes" or "oversights" to maintain clarity and relevance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unforced errors" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb. It identifies specific, avoidable mistakes made, particularly in competitive contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable and correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unforced errors" is a common noun phrase primarily used to describe avoidable mistakes, especially in competitive situations like sports and business. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used. Its function is typically to analyze performance and identify areas for improvement. While adaptable, it is important to use the phrase accurately, distinguishing it from mistakes caused by external factors. Alternatives such as "avoidable mistakes" or "self-inflicted errors" can be used for variety. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

avoidable mistakes

Focuses on the preventability of the errors.

self-inflicted errors

Emphasizes the origin of the errors as being caused by oneself.

gratuitous errors

Highlights the unnecessary nature of the errors.

careless mistakes

Stresses the lack of attention or diligence leading to the errors.

preventable errors

Underscores the possibility of avoiding the errors through better technique or strategy.

needless errors

Emphasizes that the errors serve no purpose and could have been easily avoided.

unnecessary mistakes

Indicates the errors were not required or essential.

unforced blunders

Substitutes "errors" with "blunders", implying a greater degree of mistake.

avoidable slip-ups

Uses a more informal term "slip-ups" to describe easily avoidable errors.

uncharacteristic errors

Highlights that these errors are not typical for the individual or team.

FAQs

How is the term "unforced errors" typically used?

The term "unforced errors" is commonly used in sports, particularly in tennis, to describe mistakes made by a player that are not directly caused by the opponent's actions. It can also be used in business and other competitive contexts to refer to avoidable mistakes.

What are some "strategies to reduce mistakes"?

Strategies may include improving focus, practicing fundamentals, and carefully planning each move or decision to minimize the likelihood of "unforced errors".

What's the difference between "forced" and "unforced errors"?

"Unforced errors" are self-inflicted, stemming from a player's own mistakes, while forced errors result from successful plays by an opponent that pressure the player into making a mistake.

Are "unforced errors" always negative?

Yes, "unforced errors" are inherently negative as they represent points or opportunities lost due to one's own mistakes rather than the opponent's skill.