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
Instead of spending years learning through trial and error, franchise owners can follow a plan that has already been proven to work.
—
Bob Bernotas,
Forbes.com,
1 July 2026
But figuring out the right one for your personal skin care concerns can take some trial and error.
—
Alanna Martine Kilkeary,
Glamour,
29 June 2026
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
See All Example Sentences for trial and error
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Bob Bernotas,
Forbes.com,
1 July 2026
But figuring out the right one for your personal skin care concerns can take some trial and error.
—
Alanna Martine Kilkeary,
Glamour,
29 June 2026
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
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 5 Jul. 2026.
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