lapsus

A student makes a lapsus linguae while reading aloud in class.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • An error or slip: "lapsus" refers to a minor mistake or blunder, especially in speech, writing, or memory. It is derived from Latin and is often used in formal or technical contexts to describe a momentary lapse in accuracy.

Usage Examples

• (A small error in writing.)
• (A slip of the tongue.)
• (A lapse in memory.)

Advanced Usage

• "Lapsus calami": a slip of the pen; an unintentional mistake in writing.
  • The handwritten letter contained a lapsus calami, with "their" written instead of "there." (A writing error.)
• "Lapsus linguae": a slip of the tongue; an unintentional mistake in speaking.
  • His lapsus linguae during the speech revealed his true feelings. (A spoken error.)
• "Lapsus memoriae": a lapse of memory; a momentary forgetting.
  • The witness's lapsus memoriae cast doubt on the reliability of her testimony. (A memory failure.)

Variants and Related Words

• Lapse (n): a temporary failure of concentration, memory, or judgment; a more common synonym for "lapsus."
  • She had a momentary lapse in concentration while driving. (A brief error.)
• Lapsable (adj): capable of making an error or slipping (rare).
  • Even the most careful writer is lapsable under pressure. (Prone to mistakes.)

Synonyms

• Slip: a minor mistake, often unintentional.
• Blunder: a more serious or embarrassing mistake.
• Error: a general term for a wrong action or statement.

Phrasal Verbs (Not applicable for "lapsus" as a standalone noun)

• "Lapsus" does not commonly form phrasal verbs, but it is often used in fixed Latin phrases (see Advanced Usage).

Related Idioms

• "A slip of the tongue": equivalent to "lapsus linguae"; an unintentional mistake in speaking.
  • It was just a slip of the tongue; he didn't mean to offend anyone. (A minor speaking error.)
• "A slip of the pen": equivalent to "lapsus calami"; an unintentional mistake in writing.
  • The typo was a simple slip of the pen. (A writing mistake.)