Blunder: meaning, definitions and examples

A 'blunder' usually refers to a serious mistake often made due to carelessness or ignorance, and it has a slightly more formal or serious tone.

• He made a blunder by announcing the wrong winner
• The CEO's financial blunder cost the company millions

'Mistake' is a broad and neutral term that can refer to any kind of error or wrong action, suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

• I made a mistake in my report
• It was a mistake to trust him so quickly

'Error' is a general term used in both formal and informal contexts to describe a mistake, particularly one that can be corrected or identified objectively, such as in math, coding, or procedures.

• There was an error in the calculation
• The system crashed because of a coding error

A 'gaffe' refers to a socially awkward or tactless act, usually made in public or in a social setting. It often implies embarrassment.

• The politician's latest gaffe was caught on camera
• He made a gaffe by asking her age in the meeting

'Flub' has a more informal and casual tone and is often used to describe small or clumsy mistakes, especially in performing tasks or speaking.

• She flubbed her lines during the play
• I completely flubbed the job interview

A blunder is used to describe a big, often careless mistake. It often has a serious impact or can cause embarrassment.

• He committed a major blunder during the presentation.
• Her blunder cost the company a lot of money.

Mistake is a general term for any action or judgment that is wrong or incorrect. It is neutral in tone and can be used in almost any situation.

• I made a mistake on the test.
• Calling her by the wrong name was a mistake.

Error is a more formal term used in technical or official contexts to describe a mistake or incorrect action. It can be used in both serious and minor situations.

• There was an error in the financial report.
• The system crash was due to a critical error.

Fumble is used when someone makes a mistake due to clumsiness or nervousness, especially when handling something or performing an action.

• He fumbled with his keys.
• The quarterback fumbled the ball during the game.

Botch is used when something is done very poorly or is messed up. It often suggests incompetence.

• He completely botched the repair job on the sink.
• The contractor botched the building project.