Crossword Genius

Reporters oust pest by mistake (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

error

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'mistake' is the definition.
('error' can be a synonym of 'mistake')

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

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(Other definitions for error that I've seen before include "Miscalculation" , "Boo-boo" , "wrong" , "Fallacy, mistake" , "Trial and ___" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times and the Irish Times (Crosaire).
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