Word
misconception
Phoneticsmis·con·cep·tion, stress on the third syllable
US/mɪskənˈsɛpʃən/
UK/mɪskənsˈɛpʃən/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a wrong idea or belief about something. It happens when you do not understand a situation or a fact correctly.
n. a view or opinion that is incorrect because it is based on faulty thinking or understanding.
Examples
“It is a common misconception that all spiders are dangerous.”
“The documentary aims to correct the misconception that the desert is a lifeless and empty place.”
“Despite extensive public health campaigns, the misconception that antibiotics can treat viral infections remains a significant hurdle for medical professionals worldwide.”
Examples
simple
“It is a common misconception that all spiders are dangerous.”
contextual
“The documentary aims to correct the misconception that the desert is a lifeless and empty place.”
complex
“Despite extensive public health campaigns, the misconception that antibiotics can treat viral infections remains a significant hurdle for medical professionals worldwide.”
Usage
Frequently paired with the adjectives 'common', 'popular', or 'widespread'.
Pitfall
a misconception about that...
a misconception that...
When introducing a specific false belief, use a 'that' clause rather than a prepositional phrase.
Real-World Examples
“Tullett, whose book Sniff: A History of Smells is to be published on 8 September, said a common misconception was that the past was a smellier place.” “Perhaps the biggest misconception is that it comes from not caring enough or from being lazy.” “In my experience, there are a few common misconceptions about "readiness" that I find worth challenging.” Etymology
From mis- + conception.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/misconception