A timing error detection circuit capable of detecting a timing error of symbols in a signal with a simple and small-sized configuration, comprising a sampling circuit for sampling a signal including symbols arranged at a predetermined symbol cycle at a frequency equal to four times of a symbol rate, an amplitude detection circuit for detecting an amplitude of a position subjected to said sampling in said signal, a difference detection circuit for detecting a timing error indicating deviation of the symbol included in the signal from a conceivable timing based on difference of said detected plurality of amplitudes, and a timing error signal generation circuit.