Miscalculation: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used in situations involving numerical or assessment errors, especially in planning or strategies where numbers are involved. It implies an error in judgment or estimation.

• The company's miscalculation of demand led to excess inventory.
• His miscalculation in his budget resulted in a shortfall.

Similar to 'error', this is a general word for something done wrong. Mistake can be used in both casual and formal contexts and can refer to simple, everyday errors as well as more substantial problems.

• Leaving the house without an umbrella was a mistake.
• It was a mistake to trust him so quickly.

This is a general term for any mistake or incorrect action, and can be used in a wide range of contexts from small mistakes to more significant ones. It's neutral in tone and is widely applicable.

• There was an error in the report that needed correction.
• Her typing error resulted in a confusing memo.

This term applies to serious mistakes that often involve a lack of foresight or thought. It typically carries a more severe or foolish connotation, and is often used when someone makes an obvious and significant mistake.

• The politician's blunder during the debate cost him the election.
• The general's blunder led to a significant loss of troops.

This term is commonly used in academic, professional, or technical settings to describe an error in numerical or logical calculation.

• The architect made a miscalculation in the dimensions of the building
• The stockbroker's miscalculation led to significant financial losses

This term is typically used to describe a wrong or poor decision based on incorrect assessment, often in legal, professional, or personal settings.

• The CEO’s misjudgment of the market led to a failed product launch
• Her misjudgment of his character led to a difficult partnership

This word is used to describe an inaccuracy in guessing or predicting something, often in everyday scenarios or casual conversations.

• There was a misestimation of the time it would take to complete the project
• The chef’s misestimation of ingredients resulted in a bland dish

Blunder is often used in more informal contexts to describe a significant, often embarrassing mistake in judgment or action.

• He made a blunder during his speech and forgot the main points
• Her blunder at the dinner party was laughing at the wrong moment