States & Feedback

Error Message

An error message tells someone that something went wrong.

Also called ErrorFailure messageWarning textSomething went wrong message

Visual Example

Payment could not be processed.

Plain Definition

Error messages should name the problem and point to the next useful action.

You Might Describe This As...

  • "Warning text"
  • "Something went wrong message"

Fast lookup

You May Also Mean

Error messages describe a failure; empty states describe absence, and validation errors describe input that fails a rule.

Validation Error

Check the name, visual cue, and typical use.

Empty State

Check the name, visual cue, and typical use.

Empty State vs Error Message

See the practical difference side by side.

What It Is Used For

  • Failed payments
  • Broken requests
  • Problems the user needs to fix or retry

Example User Phrasing

  • "Show an error message if saving fails."
  • "Tell users when the payment could not be processed."