your mistake

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "your mistake" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an error made by the person being addressed, often in a context of correction or clarification. Example: "I understand that you were confused, but it was indeed your mistake to overlook the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You just need to own your mistake.

The New York Times

That was your mistake, Elvis said.

The New Yorker

Don't compound your mistake by not negotiating.

Harvard Business Review

That would be your mistake, you ungrateful, whiny theatergoers.

The New York Times

So start with an apology and admit your mistake.

The New York Times

Your mistake may even work in your favour.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The Doctor: "I never said it was your mistake".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Fortunately we spotted your mistake and have already corrected it.

The Guardian

Or maybe you cope by justifying your mistake.

The New York Times

"It was partly our mistake, and it was partly your mistake".

The New Yorker

"Your grandkids and great-grandkids will be looking at your mistake.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Focus on solutions and how to correct your mistake to redirect the conversation from the problem to the fix.

Common error

Don't deflect blame or make excuses when addressing "your mistake". Own the error and focus on learning from it to build trust.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "your mistake" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or preposition, or as a subject complement. It identifies an error or fault belonging to the person being addressed. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "your mistake" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to identify an error belonging to the person being addressed. Ludwig AI analysis reveals it is commonly found in news and media, wiki content, and scientific articles. When using this phrase, it's important to be direct and avoid defensiveness, focusing instead on solutions and learning from the error. Related phrases include "your error", "your fault", and "your oversight", each carrying slightly different connotations. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is versatile and appropriate for both neutral and, depending on context, informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

your error

A more formal and direct synonym for "your mistake".

the error you made

A more verbose way of expressing the same idea.

your fault

Emphasizes responsibility or blame for the error.

the mistake you committed

Emphasizes the act of making the mistake.

your oversight

Highlights the aspect of neglecting or failing to notice something important.

your blunder

Implies a clumsy or foolish mistake.

your slip-up

Suggests a minor or unintentional error.

your misjudgment

Focuses on the error stemming from poor judgment.

your transgression

Indicates a violation of a rule or standard.

your impropriety

Implies behavior that is inappropriate or unethical.

FAQs

What's a more formal way to say "your mistake"?

A more formal alternative to "your mistake" is "your error" which carries a similar meaning but suits professional or official contexts.

How can I politely point out "your mistake" without sounding accusatory?

Instead of directly saying "your mistake", try framing it as "there seems to have been an oversight" or "perhaps there was a misunderstanding" to soften the message.

What's the difference between "your mistake" and "your responsibility"?

"Your mistake" refers to a specific error made, while "your responsibility" refers to a duty or obligation. You might make a mistake in fulfilling your responsibility.

Is it ever okay to not admit "your mistake"?

While there might be situations where admitting a mistake has immediate negative consequences, generally owning up to "your mistake" builds trust and demonstrates integrity in the long run.