Error-Mistake | Commonly Confused Words
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Error vs. Mistake

Error

/ˈerə/
A mistake or something incorrect

Examples:

Look for areas where you can admit errors and say so.Fear of error is typically rooted in childhood memories.'You are in error,' he said at last.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Mistake

/mɪˈsteɪk/
An error or fault in action, opinion, or judgment

Examples:

Mistakes were disastrous.She must be mistaken!No mistaking him.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Ways to tell them apart:

etymology
  • Errors often refer to systematic or technical problems, while mistakes are typically more personal or judgment-based.
  • Mistakes can be corrected by the person who made them, whereas errors might require a system overhaul or external correction.
  • Errors imply a deviation from accuracy or correctness, while mistakes imply a lapse in judgment or knowledge.
  • Errors are often associated with machines or processes, whereas mistakes are related to human actions.
  • Remember: error is more formal and used in technical contexts, while mistake is common in everyday usage.
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