# miscommunication

/mɪskəmˌjunəˈkeɪʃən/ (US) · /mɪskəmjˌuːnɪkˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/miscommunication
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

a mistake in how information is shared or understood. It usually happens when people do not talk clearly or listen carefully enough.

For teachers: a failure to communicate effectively, resulting in a misunderstanding or confusion. Often used to explain errors in professional or interpersonal contexts.

## Examples

- The project delay was due to a simple miscommunication.
- The two departments had a miscommunication regarding the deadline, which led to the final report being submitted late.
- What began as a minor miscommunication regarding the delivery schedule eventually escalated into a full-blown dispute between the logistics team and the client's representatives.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.