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
Their suggestions will circumvent any trial and error, so your herb garden will be flourishing in no time.
—
Emily Hayes, Martha Stewart, 21 May 2026
Franchise systems are built through trial and error across multiple markets.
—Seth Lederman, Forbes.com, 20 May 2026
What works for one person may irritate another, and some level of trial and error is often unavoidable.
—Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 18 May 2026
But for writers like Deborah, landing a stellar punch line through trial and error upon error is what yields the greatest reward.
—Caroline Framke, The Atlantic, 14 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for trial and error
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Emily Hayes, Martha Stewart, 21 May 2026
Franchise systems are built through trial and error across multiple markets.
—Seth Lederman, Forbes.com, 20 May 2026
What works for one person may irritate another, and some level of trial and error is often unavoidable.
—Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 18 May 2026
But for writers like Deborah, landing a stellar punch line through trial and error upon error is what yields the greatest reward.
—Caroline Framke, The Atlantic, 14 May 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 23 May. 2026.
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