The term "margin of error" is often used in non-survey contexts to indicate observational error in reporting measured quantities. It is also used in colloquial speech to refer to the amount of space or amount of flexibility one might have in accomplishing a goal. For example, it is often used in sports by commentators when describing how much precision is required to achieve a goal, points, or outcome. A bowling pin used in the United States is 4.75 inches wide, and the ball is 8.5 inches wide, therefore one could say a bowler has a 21.75 inch margin of error when trying to hit a specific pin to earn a spare (e.g.,1 pin remaining on the lane).