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
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This process eliminates costly trial and error, saving hours spent on weeks of prototyping. Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 14 Nov. 2025 But the trial and error is being educated on how the audience perceives you. Ethan Shanfeld, Variety, 14 Nov. 2025 Courtesy of Janet Lee Just like in acting, there’s a lot of trial and error. Janet Lee, CNBC, 14 Nov. 2025 One key aspect of wisdom is learning from our mistakes through trial and error. Big Think, 12 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for trial and error

Word History

First Known Use

1806, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of trial and error was in 1806

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Cite this Entry

“Trial and error.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trial%20and%20error. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

trial and error

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

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