Sachfehler

Sachfehler is a German term that denotes a factual error or an error in the content or information presented. The word combines Sache (matter or fact) with Fehler (error), and it is used to classify statements that misstate the facts rather than expressing a subjective opinion or a technical flaw in method.

In practice, a Sachfehler appears when a text or statement contains incorrect data, such as an erroneous date, a wrong statistic, a misattributed quote, or an inaccurate description of events. In journalism, identifying such errors is central to media accountability; in academic writing, Sachfehler undermine the credibility of the work. The term is also used in everyday language to label inaccuracies in reports, summaries, or explanations.

In legal contexts, the related term Sachverhaltsfehler refers to an error in determining the factual circumstances of a case. This is distinguished from legal errors (Rechtsfehler), which concern the application or interpretation of law rather than the factual findings themselves. A Sachverhaltsfehler can affect outcomes in appeals or retrials if the factual basis is found to be incorrect.

Prevention and remediation of Sachfehler rely on rigorous fact-checking, sourcing from primary documents, peer review, and transparent correction practices. When errors are discovered, corrections or retractions help restore accuracy and trust in the published material.

Related concepts include faktischer Fehler, Rechtsfehler, and Logikfehler.