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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.

It took some trial and error to arrive at the 15-minute construct.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026

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

“So a lot of trial and error and a lot of research, since it’s just the two of us.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 24, 2026

Technology came first, because it is possible to make machines by trial and error without fully understanding the principles on which they operate.

From "The Scientists" by John Gribbin

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