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
Mandelic acid solved what years of trial and error of AHAs, BHAs, spot treatments, and facials seemingly couldn’t—consistently clearer skin.
—
Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 14 Aug. 2025
Dialing in the best festival gear takes a lot of trial and error.
—Louryn Strampe, Wired News, 8 Aug. 2025
There was a lot of trial and error to get to the result: a nonaerosol, talc-free formula that makes hair feel clean and adds volume.
—Jackie Fields, People.com, 5 Aug. 2025
The pleasure Warner brings to the exchange reflects just how much his character has transformed from an aimless teen afraid to fail into an adult who recognizes that trial and error are part of life.
—Laura Bradley, The Atlantic, 2 Aug. 2025
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Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 14 Aug. 2025
Dialing in the best festival gear takes a lot of trial and error.
—Louryn Strampe, Wired News, 8 Aug. 2025
There was a lot of trial and error to get to the result: a nonaerosol, talc-free formula that makes hair feel clean and adds volume.
—Jackie Fields, People.com, 5 Aug. 2025
The pleasure Warner brings to the exchange reflects just how much his character has transformed from an aimless teen afraid to fail into an adult who recognizes that trial and error are part of life.
—Laura Bradley, The Atlantic, 2 Aug. 2025
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 Aug. 2025.
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