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Erratum Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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erratum

[əˈrætəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

publishing error

An erratum is a correction of an error in a published work, typically used in the contexts of books, newspapers, and journals. It is an important aspect of the editorial process, as it helps maintain accuracy and integrity in published material.

Synonyms

amendment, correction, update.

Examples of usage

  • The journal issued an erratum for the mistakes found in the previous article.
  • Please refer to the erratum for the correct statistics.
  • An erratum was published to rectify the error in the author’s name.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Publishing

  • Erratum is often found in books, articles, and academic papers to address mistakes after publication.
  • Publishers typically list errata in a separate section or on a dedicated errata page.
  • Some notable books have had famous errata, affecting perceptions of their authors or content.

Linguistics

  • In linguistics, 'erratum' highlights the importance of accuracy in written communication.
  • Each erratum corrects language use and can affect how readers interpret the text.
  • The process of correcting errors can lead to the development of better writing practices over time.

Legal

  • In legal texts, recognizing an erratum can be crucial; it may affect the interpretation of laws or contracts.
  • Some courts have specific procedures for correcting errata in legal documents.
  • Failure to address errata in legal documents can lead to misunderstandings and complications.

Technology

  • In the digital age, errata can be updated quickly, allowing for corrections to be made in real-time.
  • Software and code also use the concept of erratum to correct bugs and improve user experience.
  • Automated tools are increasingly being used to identify and suggest corrections in text.

Origin of 'erratum'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from Latin, where 'erratum' means 'an error' or 'to wander away.'
  • It’s related to the verb 'errare,' meaning 'to stray' or 'to make an error.'
  • This word has been used in English since the early 19th century, particularly in publishing.

The term 'erratum' originates from Latin, where it means 'to err' or 'to wander.' The word is derived from the verb 'errare,' which means 'to make a mistake.' In the context of publishing, the usage of 'erratum' began to emerge in the 17th century as a means to officially correct mistakes in printed texts. It has since been adopted into various languages, remaining largely unchanged, reflecting its specialized use in literary and academic environments. The plural form, 'errata,' is commonly used when referencing multiple errors. The importance of errata in scholarly communication is significant, as it reinforces the commitment to accuracy and accountability in published work, particularly in academic journals and books where precision is essential for credibility.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,172, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.