Definition of Err

Err is a verb that means to make a mistake or to be mistaken. It is often used to describe an error in judgment, action, or belief.

Key Facts

  1. Definition: “Err” is a verb that means to make a mistake or to be mistaken. It is often used to describe an error in judgment, action, or belief.
  2. Usage Examples:
    • “I may have erred in my calculations.” This sentence acknowledges the possibility of making a mistake in calculations.
    • “The court erred in refusing to allow bail.” Here, “err” is used to express the court’s mistake in denying bail.
  3. Synonyms: Some synonyms for “err” include “mistake,” “blunder,” “misjudge,” and “go astray”.
  4. Tips for Usage:
    • “Err” is commonly used in formal or professional contexts to indicate a mistake or error.
    • It is important to use “err” in the appropriate tense and form, such as “erred” for past tense or “erring” for present participle.
    • Consider using “err” when discussing personal or professional mistakes, judgment errors, or incorrect actions.

Usage Examples of Err

  • “I may have erred in my calculations.” This sentence acknowledges the possibility of making a mistake in calculations.
  • “The court erred in refusing to allow bail.” Here, “err” is used to express the court’s mistake in denying bail.

Synonyms of Err

Some synonyms for “err” include:

  • Mistake
  • Blunder
  • Misjudge
  • Go astray

Tips for Usage

  • “Err” is commonly used in formal or professional contexts to indicate a mistake or error.
  • It is important to use “err” in the appropriate tense and form, such as “erred” for past tense or “erring” for present participle.
  • Consider using “err” when discussing personal or professional mistakes, judgment errors, or incorrect actions.

Citations

  • “Err.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/err. Accessed 18 Jan. 2024.
  • “Err Sentence Examples.” YourDictionary, Sentence.yourdictionary.com, https://sentence.yourdictionary.com/err. Accessed 18 Jan. 2024.
  • “Err.” Dictionary.com, LLC, https://www.dictionary.com/browse/err. Accessed 18 Jan. 2024.

FAQs

1. What does “err” mean?

Err means to make a mistake or to be mistaken. It is often used to describe an error in judgment, action, or belief.

2. How do you use “err” in a sentence?

Here are a few examples of how to use “err” in a sentence:

  • “I may have erred in my calculations.”
  • “The court erred in refusing to allow bail.”
  • “It is human to err.”

3. What are some synonyms for “err”?

Some synonyms for “err” include:

  • Mistake
  • Blunder
  • Misjudge
  • Go astray

4. What is the difference between “err” and “error”?

“Err” is a verb that means to make a mistake, while “error” is a noun that refers to the mistake itself. For example, you might say “I erred in my calculations” or “There was an error in the report.”

5. When should I use “err” instead of other words like “mistake” or “blunder”?

“Err” is often used in formal or professional contexts to indicate a mistake or error. It is a more neutral word than “mistake” or “blunder,” which can have negative connotations.

6. What are some tips for using “err” correctly?

Here are a few tips for using “err” correctly:

  • Use “err” in the appropriate tense and form, such as “erred” for past tense or “erring” for present participle.
  • Consider using “err” when discussing personal or professional mistakes, judgment errors, or incorrect actions.
  • Avoid using “err” in informal contexts, as it can sound pretentious or overly formal.

7. Are there any common phrases or idioms that use the word “err”?

Yes, there are a few common phrases and idioms that use the word “err”:

  • “To err is human, to forgive divine.”
  • “Human error”
  • “Err on the side of caution”

8. What is the origin of the word “err”?

The word “err” comes from the Latin word “errare,” which means “to wander” or “to stray.” It entered the English language in the 14th century.