In professional and academic settings, it is not uncommon to discover errors in documents, presentations, or even emails that have already been sent. When this happens, people often seek a polite and clear way to acknowledge the mistake. One such word that sometimes comes up is erratum. The question then arises: can you use the word erratum in an email to correct an error? This topic explores the appropriateness, context, and etiquette of using ‘erratum’ in email communication, especially in modern business and academic environments where clarity and tone matter.
Understanding the Meaning of Erratum
The word ‘erratum’ comes from Latin and literally means ‘error.’ It is commonly used in academic or publishing contexts to indicate a correction of a mistake in a printed or written text. The plural form is ‘errata.’ For example, when a journal topic contains a mistake, a separate notice might be issued as an erratum to officially correct it.
When Erratum Is Typically Used
Traditionally, erratum is seen in:
- Academic journal publications
- Books or manuscripts
- Conference papers
- Official printed reports
These corrections are often documented formally because they are part of a permanent academic or professional record. Using erratum in this way helps maintain integrity and transparency in scholarship and information dissemination.
Can You Use Erratum in Email?
Yes, technically, you can use erratum in an email. However, whether it is appropriate depends on the tone, context, and audience of your message. Email is generally less formal than a journal topic or a printed publication. Using a Latin word like erratum may come off as overly formal or even confusing if your readers are unfamiliar with the term. Still, in certain professional or academic emails, it can be a valid choice.
When It Makes Sense to Use Erratum
There are situations where using erratum in email is perfectly acceptable:
- When writing to academic colleagues or journal editors
- When following up on a shared document or manuscript
- When making a correction in a formal group email related to research or documentation
In these cases, your audience is likely to understand and appreciate the precise terminology.
Examples of Using Erratum in Email
Academic Example
Subject: Erratum – Correction in Draft Manuscript
Dear Dr. Lee,
I would like to point out an erratum in the manuscript draft I sent yesterday. On page 4, paragraph 2, the statistical value should read p < 0.05 instead of p < 0.005. Please accept my apologies for the oversight.
Best regards,
Anna Rodriguez
Corporate Example
Subject: Correction in Attached Report
Dear Team,
Please note an erratum in the Q2 financial report circulated this morning. The total revenue figure on slide 6 should be $1.2M, not $1.8M. An updated version is now attached.
Apologies for any confusion this may have caused.
Best,
Marcus
When to Avoid Using Erratum
There are also scenarios where using erratum in an email might be unnecessary or overly formal. For example:
- Internal office memos with casual tone
- Customer support responses
- Personal or informal communications
In these cases, simpler language is more appropriate. Phrases like Just a quick correction, Oops, I meant to say or Please disregard the earlier figure are clearer and more relatable.
Alternative Phrases You Can Use
Instead of using erratum, consider these more conversational alternatives when writing emails:
- Correction:
- Updated information:
- Clarification:
- My apologies, please note the corrected version below.
These phrases sound natural and are generally well-received in professional emails.
Is Erratum Considered Polite?
Yes, the word erratum is inherently neutral and carries no rudeness. In fact, using it in a suitable setting may demonstrate professionalism, especially in academia. However, politeness in an email is about more than vocabulary. Make sure to add a courteous tone, acknowledge the mistake, and offer a quick solution or correction.
Polite Email Tone Tips
- Begin with a friendly greeting
- Clearly state the correction
- Avoid sounding defensive or dismissive
- Apologize if the mistake caused inconvenience
Should You Title Your Email with Erratum?
It depends on your audience. If you’re sending a follow-up to correct something in an academic submission or shared technical report, a subject line like Erratum: Section 3.2 Data Correction is clear and appropriate. However, if your email is casual or directed to a wider audience, a subject like Correction to Earlier Email may be more effective.
Using Erratum in Email
Erratum is a valid and sometimes useful word to include in an email, especially in formal and scholarly contexts. It signals professionalism and attention to detail. However, for broader or casual communication, simpler words like correction or update may be more relatable and effective. Always consider your audience, the tone of your message, and the clarity of your intent.
Ultimately, the goal of any correction in an email is to communicate clearly and respectfully. Whether you choose to say erratum or go with a simpler phrase, what matters most is that your message is understood and received positively.