First Post: The word mistake

There's talk on many websites about the difference between the word 'mistake' and the word 'error'. Here's a sampling of the differing opinions on the matter:

• "Mistakes are generally one-time-only events. The speaker who makes a mistake is able to recognize it as a mistake and correct it if necessary. An error, on the other hand, is systematic-- it is likely to occur repeatedly and is not recognized by the learner as an error"
• "A mistake arises because something has been done wrongly, someone has goofed.An error may occur because it is inevitable. There is always some uncertainty, or expected error, in any measurement. Anyone who has been involved in practical experimental work, or in stats and surveys, will need no further explanation."

Here's my take on the issue of mistake. The word mistake is made up of two parts, 'mis' and 'take'. When one's take on a matter is in error, they are making a MIStake. This causes them to err. The cause of the error is because they had the wrong take or opinion or understanding of a situation. He MIStook causing him to err, or he is MIStaking.

My only problem with this take is the use of the word 'mistaken'. We use the word mistaken on the person making the mistake. According to the way I am understanding, the issue is mistaken, not the person.

Oh, well. Anyway, I plan to use this blog to point out common misconceptions that I pick up in day-to-day life or elsewhere. When the lightbulb goes off in my head, I'll try to put it to 'paper'.

Thank you for reading.

We'll be in touch.

Miss Take