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Definitions

trial and error

NOUN
experimental approach
Synonyms
WEAK
R and D analysis cut and try examination experiment hit and miss hit or miss probe research research and development study tentation test

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This allows researchers to identify promising molecules more quickly and with far less trial and error.

From Science Daily • Mar. 14, 2026

Figuring out who and how you love takes trial and error, two things Andie and Blane both endure while trying to fit into each other’s respective worlds.

From Salon • Feb. 28, 2026

Meanwhile, a coup may be on the way in China's island province of Hainan, where years of trial and error are bearing fruit.

From BBC • Jan. 10, 2026

As in “The Martian,” the story is built around trial and error and the scientific method.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 1, 2026

All of that knowledge is acquired by observation and by trial and error.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.