Trial and error

noun

A way of achieving a result where different methods are tried until one works.

He didn't know how to solve the math problem, so he used trial and error.
Visual representation of "trial and error" - A way of achieving a result where different methods are tried until one works.

Often appears as...

  • use trial and error
  • process of trial and error
noun

In psychology, a method of learning involving repeatedly trying various responses until finding the one that achieves a desired result.

In behavioral psychology, animals often learn behaviors through trial and error.
Visual representation of "trial and error" - In psychology, a method of learning involving repeatedly trying various responses until finding the one that achieves a desired result.

Often appears as...

  • through trial and error
  • trial and error learning

Usage tips

Academic, Technical

noun

A way of achieving a result where different methods are tried until one works.

He didn't know how to solve the math problem, so he used trial and error.
Visual representation of "trial and error" - A way of achieving a result where different methods are tried until one works.

Often appears as...

  • use trial and error
  • process of trial and error
noun

In psychology, a method of learning involving repeatedly trying various responses until finding the one that achieves a desired result.

In behavioral psychology, animals often learn behaviors through trial and error.
Visual representation of "trial and error" - In psychology, a method of learning involving repeatedly trying various responses until finding the one that achieves a desired result.

Often appears as...

  • through trial and error
  • trial and error learning

Usage tips

Academic, Technical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "trial and error"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Learning Method

Consider 'trial and error' as a learning strategy, not just a random process.

Illustration for Learning Method
I learned to bake bread by trial and error.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informality

'Trial and error' suggests an informal approach to solving problems.

Illustration for Informality
They set up the machine through trial and error.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Practical Process

Use 'trial and error' to describe hands-on activities, rather than purely intellectual ones.

Illustration for Practical Process
Fixing this old car is going to be a matter of trial and error.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Learning Method

Consider 'trial and error' as a learning strategy, not just a random process.

Illustration for Learning Method
I learned to bake bread by trial and error.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informality

'Trial and error' suggests an informal approach to solving problems.

Illustration for Informality
They set up the machine through trial and error.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Practical Process

Use 'trial and error' to describe hands-on activities, rather than purely intellectual ones.

Illustration for Practical Process
Fixing this old car is going to be a matter of trial and error.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Learning Method

Consider 'trial and error' as a learning strategy, not just a random process.

Illustration for Learning Method
I learned to bake bread by trial and error.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informality

'Trial and error' suggests an informal approach to solving problems.

Illustration for Informality
They set up the machine through trial and error.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Practical Process

Use 'trial and error' to describe hands-on activities, rather than purely intellectual ones.

Illustration for Practical Process
Fixing this old car is going to be a matter of trial and error.
Visual representation of the word "Trial and error"

Never forget "Trial and error"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top