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

That was the part that took a bit of trial and error, with the team going through 64 players, five coaches, three general managers/sporting directors and two controlling ownership groups since its founding. — Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2026

Chiu emphasizes that herbal supplementation is best approached with guidance from a qualified practitioner rather than through trial and error. — Audrey Noble, Vogue, 26 Oct. 2026

Treatment may include different kinds of medications, injections or other approaches, and finding the right combination can sometimes require trial and error. — Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 26 Oct. 2026

These training sessions will use physical models, algorithms, and human knowledge built through years of trial and error. — Muskan Bhatia, Interesting Engineering, 23 Oct. 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