discrepancy in the figures

Meaning

This phrase refers to an inconsistency, mismatch, or disagreement between two or more sets of numbers, financial reports, or data points. It is a polite and professional way to point out an error or difference without directly accusing someone of making a mistake.

Examples

• The auditor noticed a significant discrepancy in the figures for the third quarter.

  The auditor noticed a significant discrepancy in the figures for the third quarter.

• We need to reconcile these accounts because there is a discrepancy in the figures.

  We need to reconcile these accounts because there is a discrepancy in the figures.

• Could you double-check the spreadsheet? I found a small discrepancy in the figures.

  Could you double-check the spreadsheet? I found a small discrepancy in the figures.

• The discrepancy in the figures was caused by a simple data entry error.

  The discrepancy in the figures was caused by a simple data entry error.

• Any discrepancy in the figures must be reported to the finance director immediately.

  Any discrepancy in the figures must be reported to the finance director immediately.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ There is a different in the figures.

  ✓ There is a discrepancy in the figures.

  Learners often use the adjective 'different' instead of the noun 'difference' or the more formal and precise business term 'discrepancy'.

• ✗ We found a discrepancy of the figures.

  ✓ We found a discrepancy in the figures.

  The correct preposition to use after 'discrepancy' when referring to data, numbers, or reports is 'in', not 'of'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• We cannot sign off on the budget because there is a clear ___.

  💡 An inconsistency or difference in the numbers.

  Show answer

  discrepancy in the figures

• Please review the monthly report; I suspect there is a ___.

  💡 A mismatch or error in the reported numerical data.

  Show answer

  discrepancy in the figures