# misdirection

/mɪsdaɪɹˈɛkʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/misdirection
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

a trick that sends your attention the wrong way, so you miss what really happens. Magicians use it to hide how a trick works.

For teachers: deliberate diversion of attention or instruction toward a false conclusion, often to conceal real intentions or methods. In legal contexts, incorrect guidance given to a jury by a judge.

## Examples

- The magician uses misdirection to hide the coin.
- The defense lawyer claims judicial misdirection confused the jury about the standard of proof.
- The novel's power lies less in plot twists than in quiet narrative misdirection, steering sympathy toward a character whose motives unravel only in the final pages.

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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.