Definition

1. Verb phrase:
   • To make a mistake / to commit an error: The primary meaning of "mắc lỗi" is to do something wrong, incorrect, or faulty, often unintentionally. It implies being at fault for an error.
   • To be at fault / to be guilty of a mistake: It can also describe the state of having committed a fault or being responsible for an error.

Usage Examples

• Verb phrase:
  • Tôi rất tiếc vì đã mắc lỗi. (I am very sorry for making a mistake.)
  • Cầu thủ đó mắc lỗi và bị thẻ vàng. (That player committed a foul and received a yellow card.)
  • Máy tính này thường xuyên mắc lỗi hệ thống. (This computer frequently has system errors.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is neutral regarding intent; it can be used for both careless mistakes and deliberate rule-breaking, depending on context (e.g., a grammatical error vs. a foul in sports).
• It is commonly used in formal contexts like reports ("mắc lỗi kỹ thuật" - to have a technical error) and everyday apologies.

Variants and Related Words

• Phạm lỗi (verb phrase): A very close synonym, often used interchangeably, especially in formal or legal contexts (to commit an offense/error).
• Lỗi (noun): The noun form meaning "mistake," "error," or "fault."
• Mắc phải (verb): A broader phrase meaning "to incur" or "to fall into," often used with negative things like debt or illness.

Synonyms

• To err: To make a mistake.
• To blunder: To make a careless or serious mistake.
• To foul: To commit a violation of rules, especially in sports.

Related Idioms

• Mắc lỗi lầm: A slightly more emphatic form, often referring to a more serious mistake or transgression.
  • Anh ấy đã mắc phải những lỗi lầm nghiêm trọng trong quá khứ. (He committed serious mistakes in the past.)