Translation guide
The English word 'error' can refer to a mistake, a computer error, or a misunderstanding. This guide helps learners choose the most natural Japanese expression depending on the context.
システムにエラーがあります。
There's an error in the system.
To refer to a general mistake, slip, or blunder in action or judgment.
The most common and versatile word for 'mistake' or 'error'. Used for factual errors, wrong answers, and everyday slip-ups.
計算に間違いがあった。
There was an error in the calculation.
それはよくある間違いです。
That's a common mistake.
A casual loanword from English, often used for minor mistakes, especially in sports, work, or daily life. Less formal than 間違い.
彼は大事な場面でミスをした。
He made an error at a crucial moment.
入力ミスに気をつけてください。
Please be careful of input errors.
A more formal or literary term for a mistake, often implying a moral failing or serious error in judgment. Used in writing or solemn speech.
過去の過ちを繰り返さない。
I will not repeat past errors.
To refer to a technical error in software, hardware, or a system.
The standard loanword for a computer or technical error. Used in error messages, programming, and IT contexts.
システムエラーが発生しました。
A system error has occurred.
エラーメッセージが表示された。
An error message was displayed.
Refers to a malfunction, bug, or glitch. Often used for hardware or software defects, but can also apply to non-computer contexts.
Specifically a software bug. Very common among programmers and gamers.
このバグを修正してください。
Please fix this bug.
To refer to an error in understanding or a wrong belief.
Means 'misunderstanding' or 'misconception'. Used when someone interprets something incorrectly.
それは誤解です。
That's a misunderstanding.
誤解を招く表現は避けてください。
Please avoid expressions that could cause misunderstanding.
A casual term for a mistaken assumption or mix-up. Often used for personal mistakes in perception.
To refer to a margin of error, statistical error, or deviation.
Specifically means 'error' in the sense of a margin of error, measurement error, or statistical deviation. Used in science and math.
実験結果には誤差が含まれる。
The experimental results contain errors.
誤差の範囲内です。
It's within the margin of error.
間違い is the safest, most general word for 'mistake'. ミス is casual and often implies a slip or blunder, while エラー is primarily for technical/computer errors. Use 間違い in formal writing or when unsure.
テストで間違いを直す。
Correct mistakes on a test.
彼のミスで負けた。
We lost because of his error.
プログラムのエラーを修正する。
Fix program errors.
エラー is not used for personal mistakes like forgetting something or making a social blunder. In those cases, use 間違い or ミス.
This app has many errors/bugs.
機械の不具合で停止した。
It stopped due to a mechanical error.
日付を勘違いしていた。
I got the date wrong.
それは君の勘違いだよ。
That's your mistake (you're mistaken).