Bug: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to a small insect in general and can also be used to describe an error in software. This term is informal.

• I found a bug in my salad
• There's a bug in the new software update

A broad, formal term used to describe any small arthropod with a three-part body. Suitable for scientific or general contexts.

• Insects are crucial for pollination
• The study of insects is known as entomology

Specifically refers to a type of insect with a hard shell-like back. Often used when discussing biology or nature.

• The garden is full of colorful beetles
• We studied beetles in our biology class

Informal and often used to describe small insects or arthropods that move in a way that might make someone uncomfortable. Usually has a negative or spooky connotation.

• There are creepy-crawlies all over the basement
• Kids usually get scared of creepy-crawlies

Commonly used in the field of software development to describe a mistake or fault in a program that causes it to produce incorrect or unexpected results. It is the most general term among the group.

• The new update fixed a major bug in the system
• There’s a bug in the software that causes it to crash

Used to describe a mistake more formally, both in computing and general contexts. It implies something that deviates from accuracy or correctness.

• I made an error in my calculations
• The program halted due to an unexpected error

Refers to a minor, temporary malfunction in a system, often in electronics or digital technology. It is often considered less severe than a 'bug' or 'error'.

• There was a glitch in the game that caused my character to freeze
• The system experienced a minor glitch but is now functioning properly

Describes a defect or weakness in a more general sense. It can be used in various contexts, from software to physical objects, and often implies a fundamental problem.

• The design has a critical flaw that needs to be addressed
• There's a flaw in your argument that makes it invalid