errata

Errata refers to errors discovered in a published work after its release, together with notices that correct those errors. In traditional publishing, an erratum is a correction of a misprint, factual error, or other mistake. A collection of such corrections may appear as an errata sheet or an inserted page in a later print run, or be published as a corrigendum.

Etymology: the term comes from Latin erratum, the neuter form of erratus, meaning something to be corrected. Errata is the feminine plural noun in modern usage, and the phrase has become a generic label for published corrections.

In scholarly and literary contexts, errata is often used alongside terms like corrigendum and addendum. An erratum typically refers to a correction of errors introduced during the publication process, whereas a corrigendum may denote a correction of substantive mistakes by the authors. Addenda provide information that was not included in the original text. The exact usage can vary by publisher or field, but all serve to preserve the integrity of the record.

Applications and practice: errata may be issued for books, newspapers, journals, and articles. In journals, an erratum is usually published in a later issue with a precise reference to the original work, and digital versions may be updated with a note indicating the correction. In modern publishing and documentation, the concept extends to digital content, where corrections are documented and, when possible, versioned.

Limitations: not all errors warrant public errata; minor typographical mistakes or stylistic issues may be corrected quietly. The purpose of errata is to maintain accuracy, transparency, and trust in the published record.