trial and error

noun

: a finding out of the best way to reach a desired result or a correct solution by trying out one or more ways or means and by noting and eliminating errors or causes of failure

also : the trying of one thing or another until something succeeds

Examples of trial and error in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

After hours of trial and error, Jeff eventually settled on a three-tooth design that provides enough force to advance the numbered drum, while still using a minimal number of teeth to allow the gears to rotate back with little resistance. —Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 5 Feb. 2026

How does that feel, the trial and error of working with some producers that are not as encouraging? —Nicole Fell, HollywoodReporter, 4 Feb. 2026

Instead of years of trial and error, breeders are beginning to use AI to analyze terpene profiles, cannabinoid ratios and consumer feedback at scale. —Aisha Alves, Rolling Stone, 3 Feb. 2026

Through trial and error over the course of many actions, the AI learns the best ways to accomplish the goal. —Jeremy Kahn, Fortune, 30 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1806, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for trial and error

• bearer
• carer
• fairer
• ferrer
• rarer
• sharer
• terror
• wearer
• cupbearer
• declarer
• preparer
• repairer

Kids Definition

trial and error

noun

: the trying of one thing or another until something succeeds