Chinese Grammar Reference logo

    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'error' or 'mistake' with 错误 (cuòwù) as a noun

    Actions & Events
    Description & Modification

    Structure

    一 + 个 + 错误

    Explanation

    The noun 错误 (cuòwù) means 'error,' 'mistake,' or 'fault' and refers to something that has been done incorrectly. It is commonly used with classifiers like 个 and appears in formal writing, news, and everyday speech. It can be preceded by adjectives or quantifiers to specify the nature or number of mistakes.

    Examples

    • 每个人都会犯错误，重要的是能改正。

      Měi gè rén dōu huì fàn cuòwù, zhòngyào de shì néng gǎizhèng.

      Everyone makes mistakes; what matters is being able to correct them.

    • 这篇文章里有好几个错误。

      Zhè piān wénzhāng lǐ yǒu hǎo jǐ gè cuòwù.

      There are several mistakes in this article.

    • 他终于意识到了自己的错误。

      Tā zhōngyú yìshí dào le zìjǐ de cuòwù.

      He finally realized his mistake.

    Often Confused With

    Expressing 'error' or 'mistake' with 错误 (cuòwù) as a noun | Chinese Grammar