noun

der Irrtum, ¨-er

error · mistake

Eine falsche Annahme oder Meinung, bei der man etwas nicht richtig verstanden hat.

The German word "Irrtum" is a masculine noun meaning "error", "mistake", or "misconception".

  • It is made up of:
    • "Ir": related to "irren," meaning "to err" or "to be mistaken."
    • "Tum": a common suffix in German forming nouns, often indicating a state or condition.

Similar words:

  • Fehler — mistake, fault, defect
  • Missverständnis — misunderstanding
  • Versehen — oversight, mistake
  • Täuschung — deception, delusion

Differences:

  • Irrtum specifically refers to a factual error or wrongful belief.
  • Fehler is more general and can be any kind of error (including technical or moral faults).
  • Missverständnis involves misunderstanding between people.
  • Versehen often implies an accidental mistake or oversight.
  • Täuschung implies intent to deceive rather than an accidental error.

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Examples

Ein solcher Irrtum kann Folgen haben.noun

Such an error can have consequences.

Aus seinen früheren Irrtümern hat er viel gelernt.noun

He has learned a lot from his previous mistakes.

Die Wissenschaftlerin erkannte schließlich ihren Irrtum.noun

The scientist eventually recognized her mistake.

Die Richterin musste den Irrtum des Zeugen richtigstellen.noun

The judge had to correct the witness's mistake.

Nach längerem Nachdenken wurde ihm der Irrtum bewusst.noun

After thinking for a long time, he realized the mistake.

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