A method for use in an apparatus for frequency error detection and automatic frequency control detects a frequency error by utilizing known symbols other than a data signal contained in an input signal. At least two known symbols located at positions somewhat distant from each other in the input signal are extracted therefrom. A phase shift between the two known symbols in the input signal represents a frequency shift of the input signal. The frequency shift of the input signal is detected from the phase shift. A first symbol set including at least two known different symbols and a second symbol set including at least two known symbols having a different symbol distance from that of the first symbol set are extracted.