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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
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.
Lemfadli told Newsweek that there is still a process of trial and error in determining which packaging or item categories work best, but that the NGO is listening to recipients and has begun including cream cheese upon request. Alia Shoaib, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Nov. 2025 Our mother figures and friends can serve as the best sources of inspiration for beauty tips and tricks, thanks to many years of trial and error. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 24 Nov. 2025 Blindly stumbling onto technological tools through unexamined trial and error can also lead down some pretty weird roads. Literary Hub, 19 Nov. 2025 According to someone familiar with Project Prometheus’ work, the startup seeks to apply AI to physical tasks, which requires systems that can learn not just from massive amounts of digital data, like LLMs do, but from real-world trial and error. Sharon Goldman, Fortune, 18 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 29 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

trial and error

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

More from Merriam-Webster on trial and error

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