Trial-and-error

Trial-and-error is a problem-solving method in which various attempts are made to achieve a desired outcome, with feedback being received from each attempt, leading to adjustments and modifications until a solution is found. This method is often used when there is no clear or available pathway to a solution, allowing for a flexible and adaptive approach to overcoming challenges. It emphasizes learning through experience and persistence in the face of obstacles.

Trial-and-error meaning with examples

In learning how to ride a bicycle, many children employ a trial-and-error approach, balancing, pedaling, and falling until they find the right technique to maintain stability. This hands-on learning often leads to a sense of accomplishment once they succeed after numerous attempts. Through trial-and-error, they develop not only their cycling skills but also perseverance and resilience.
When conducting scientific experiments, researchers frequently use trial-and-error to test hypotheses. They manipulate variables and observe outcomes to determine what works and what doesn’t. By repeating this process, they gather valuable data that leads to the refinement of theories and the discovery of new truths, showcasing the importance of iterative testing in advancing knowledge.
A chef might adopt a trial-and-error method when trying out a new recipe, adjusting seasoning and cooking times based on the taste of the final dish. Each attempt serves as feedback, helping them improve the dish with each iteration. This creative experimentation not only enhances culinary skills but also encourages spontaneity and innovation in the kitchen.
Learning a new language can also involve trial-and-error; learners often try to formulate sentences or use vocabulary in conversations. Mistakes made during these attempts provide crucial feedback, allowing learners to refine their linguistic skills over time. This method underscores the idea that making mistakes is a fundamental part of the learning process.
In software development, programmers often use a trial-and-error approach when debugging their code. They systematically test different solutions to identify what causes issues. By analyzing the outcomes of each attempt, developers can troubleshoot effectively, demonstrating that solving complex problems sometimes requires patience and a willingness to explore multiple avenues.

Trial-and-error Synonyms

adaptive learning adjustment attempting discovery experiment experimentation exploration exploratory feedback loop flexibility guesswork hit-or-miss iteration modification persistence prototyping refinement resilience testing trial

Trial-and-error Antonyms

assurance certainty conclusiveness consistency convention decisiveness directness efficiency finality instantaneousness methodology orderliness planning predictability promptness regularity reliability strategy sureness systematic