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
It’s marked with a small informational sign, but there aren’t any trail markers otherwise, so this route was a little bit of trial and error.
—
Maura Fox,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
26 June 2026
What Roble figured out by trial and error, researchers have measured.
—
Angela Haupt,
Time,
24 June 2026
That means engaging in deliberate experimentation, accepting some trial and error around service delivery, pricing, workflows, and talent models.
—
Rachel Proffitt,
Fortune,
23 June 2026
Learning to landscape is a journey of trial and error, so don’t be afraid to dive in head first and get your hands dirty.
—
Cori Sears,
The Spruce,
23 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.
Maura Fox,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
26 June 2026
What Roble figured out by trial and error, researchers have measured.
—
Angela Haupt,
Time,
24 June 2026
That means engaging in deliberate experimentation, accepting some trial and error around service delivery, pricing, workflows, and talent models.
—
Rachel Proffitt,
Fortune,
23 June 2026
Learning to landscape is a journey of trial and error, so don’t be afraid to dive in head first and get your hands dirty.
—
Cori Sears,
The Spruce,
23 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 28 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
