technical error

[/ˈtɛknɪkəl ˈɛrər/]
nounpl: technical errors
erro técnico
1. A malfunction or failure in a system, device, or software caused by a problem in its technical components or programming
The broadcast was interrupted due to a technical error.
A transmissão foi interrompida devido a um erro técnico.
2. In sports, a violation of rules that is related to the way the game is conducted rather than player conduct
The referee called a technical error when the scoreboard displayed the wrong time.
O árbitro marcou um erro técnico quando o placar exibiu o tempo errado.
3. A mistake occurring in the execution or operation of technology or machinery
We apologize for the technical error that prevented you from accessing your account.
Desculpe pelo erro técnico que impediu você de acessar sua conta.
In Brazil, this phrase is commonly used in media, technology, and sports contexts. It's often cited as an explanation for service interruptions, broadcast failures, or online banking issues. In the USA, 'technical error' is frequently used in broadcasting and IT support, and has become part of everyday vocabulary with the rise of digital services. The phrase carries a somewhat neutral tone, suggesting the issue is temporary and not due to user error or intentional action.
NYC Slang
glitch / tech hiccup
Synonyms / Sinônimos
system failuremalfunctionglitchbugsystem error
Antonyms / Antônimos
proper functioningnormal operation

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
erro técnico
Standard term used across Brazil in formal and informal contexts
Rio de Janeiro
erro técnico / treta técnica
Colloquially may use 'treta' (slang for problem/issue)
São Paulo
erro técnico
Standard usage in business and technology sectors
Portugal
erro técnico
Identical to Brazilian Portuguese; sometimes 'falha técnica' (technical failure)

Related Words

malfunctionsoftware bugsystem crashtroubleshootdebugIT support

Related Idioms & Phrases

due to technical difficulties
a slip in the system
Murphy's Law strikes again
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →