Erroneous Meaning and Definition
Erroneous
Pronunciation
/ɛrˈnɒuəs/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
(of a statement, fact, etc.) incorrect or mistaken; not true or accurate.
Etymology
The word “erroneous” comes from the Latin “erroneus,” meaning “mistaken” or “wrong,” which is derived from “errare,” meaning “to wander” or “to stray.”
Usage Notes
Erroneous is often used to describe a statement or fact that is incorrect or mistaken. For example: “The news report contained an erroneous statement about the government’s policies.”
Cultural References
Erroneous has appeared in various forms of media, including literature, film, and television. For example, in the novel “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown, the protagonist Robert Langdon discovers an erroneous conclusion about the Holy Grail.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Erroneous assumption” – an assumption that is incorrect or mistaken.
Related Words or Phrases
Mistaken, incorrect, inaccurate, false
Collocations
Erroneous data, erroneous conclusion, erroneous statement
Frequency of Use
Erroneous is a relatively common word in modern language, particularly in academic and professional contexts.
Common Misspellings
erronous, enormus
Examples
- The financial report contained an erroneous figure that led to a significant investment mistake.
- The doctor questioned the patient’s erroneous diagnosis and prescribed a more accurate treatment.
Synonyms
- Mistaken
- Incorrect
Antonyms
- Accurate
- True
Additional Information
In science and academia, erroneous findings or data can have significant consequences, including the withdrawal of publication and the retraction of research papers. In everyday life, recognizing and correcting erroneous assumptions or beliefs is crucial for making informed decisions and avoiding mistakes.