The Definition Of Error Analysis In English Language

INTRODUCTION

1.0 BACKGROUND TO STUDY

The errors of English language users provide us with a substantial amount of information when investigating the language learning process. More practically, they can guide us to take a remedial action to errors. There are various views concerning the role of errors in language usage which affect the way of dealing with errors. If users can have clear attitudes to errors and appropriately deal with them, they can influence or even minimise the incidence of errors more effectively. Errors in English language usage are cases which are difficult enough to avoid. Error analysis is the process of determining the incidence, nature, causes, and consequences of unsuccessful language. Richards et.al (1973, p.96) state that:

Error analysis

It seems this concept is the same as the one proposed by Crystal i.e. Error analysis is a technique for identifying, classifying and systematically interpreting the unacceptable forms produced by someone using an unfamiliar language (English Language), using any of the principles and procedures provided by linguistics. The three definitions above clarify that error analysis is an activity to identify, classify and interpret or describe the errors made by someone in speaking or in writing and it is carried out to obtain information on common difficulties faced by someone in speaking or in writing English sentences. Another thing which should be taken into cognisance is the procedure of error analysis. On the contrary, if writers fail in error correction, it might have a harmful effect on the consumers of their works, therefore, it is important to know how to properly analyze the sources of errors, evaluate and aim to prevent