error

Everyday

1. An error is a mistake, something done wrongly. tree →
2. In maths and science, an error is the difference between a measured or estimated value and the true value. tree →
3. A computer error is a problem that stops a program working correctly. tree →

In the lessons

At school, pupils find and correct errors in spelling, punctuation and calculations. In science, measurement errors are discussed. On computers, an error message shows something went wrong. Phrases: make an error, by error, in error, error message, trial and error, human error.

Examples

• I made an error in my sum. tree →
• Check your work for errors. tree →
• There's an error message on the screen. tree →
• We found the answer by trial and error. tree →
• The letter was sent to us in error. tree →
• The ruler was bent, so there was an error in our measurement. tree →
• Count again; there was an error in the total. tree →
• There were a very large number of typographic errors in the source edition of this text. tree →

Note

Countable; use an: an error. Spelling: double r: e-r-r-o-r, ending -or. Similar: mistake (more everyday). Trial and error means trying many ways until one works. Making errors is a normal part of learning.

In Jewish tradition

In the Torah it means a sin done by mistake rather than on purpose. In the Prophets and Writings it also means a mistake or fault, such as a ruler's mistake or Uzzah's fault at the ark.

Interpretation. The law separates error from deliberate sin: accidental wrongs bring an offering, and a person who kills by accident may flee to a city of refuge. The tradition reads Uzzah's death as showing that even a well-meant mistake near the holy ark was taken very seriously.

Examples

• And if one person sin through error, then he shall offer a she-goat of the first year for a sin-offering. (Torah NUM.15.27, JPS 1917) tree →
• then ye shall appoint you cities to be cities of refuge for you, that the manslayer that killeth any person through error may flee thither. (Torah NUM.35.11, JPS 1917) tree →
• When a ruler sinneth, and doeth through error any one of all the things which the LORD his God hath commanded not to be done, and is guilty: (Torah LEV.4.22, JPS 1917) tree →
• And be it indeed that I have erred, mine error remaineth with myself. (Writings JOB.19.4, JPS 1917) tree →
• There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, like an error which proceedeth from a ruler: (Writings ECC.10.5, JPS 1917) tree →
• And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Uzzah; and God smote him there for his error; and there he died by the ark of God. (Prophets 2SA.6.7, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Countable; use an: an error. Spelling: double r: e-r-r-o-r, ending -or. Similar: mistake (more everyday). Trial and error means trying many ways until one works. Making errors is a normal part of learning.