trial and error

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.

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

With no formal engineering background, Richardson began collecting information online, perusing old manuals, learning through trial and error.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2026

Instead of directly modeling their behavior, researchers use trial and error to come up with plausible values for key parameters—the rate at which clouds over the ocean turn to rain, say.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 19, 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

It took some trial and error, but Penelope soon discovered that Alexander would get in the tub only if the water was quite cool and perfectly still.

From "The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: Book I: The Mysterious Howling" by Maryrose Wood