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
Roller noted that the students develop their creativity and problem-solving skills through trial and error.
—
Nollyanne Delacruz, Mercury News, 17 June 2026
Jassy, who played soccer at Harvard before pivoting into business, has said trial and error helped shape his own career path.
—Preston Fore, Fortune, 15 June 2026
During that period, a lot of trial and error has resulted in a variety of flavor profiles.
—David Thomas Tao, Forbes.com, 13 June 2026
For makeup department head Alexei Dmitriew and hair department head Ally Vickers, the task of coming up with the right amount of camouflage for Powell was one of trial and error.
—Carita Rizzo, HollywoodReporter, 8 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for trial and error
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Nollyanne Delacruz, Mercury News, 17 June 2026
Jassy, who played soccer at Harvard before pivoting into business, has said trial and error helped shape his own career path.
—Preston Fore, Fortune, 15 June 2026
During that period, a lot of trial and error has resulted in a variety of flavor profiles.
—David Thomas Tao, Forbes.com, 13 June 2026
For makeup department head Alexei Dmitriew and hair department head Ally Vickers, the task of coming up with the right amount of camouflage for Powell was one of trial and error.
—Carita Rizzo, HollywoodReporter, 8 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for trial and error
Cite this Entry
“Trial and error.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trial%20and%20error. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
