Word
misguided
Phoneticsmis·guid·ed, stress on the second syllable
US/mɪsˈɡaɪdɪd/
UK/mɪsɡˈaɪdɪd/
Definitions
01based on bad judgment
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. describes an idea or plan that is wrong because it was not thought through properly.
adj. characterised by poor judgment or a lack of foresight; often used to describe plans or policies that are ill-conceived.
“The company's misguided attempt to save money actually cost them more in the long run.”
“The government's misguided policy on urban development ignored the immediate needs of the local community in favour of aesthetic appeal.”
Usage
Often used to describe abstract nouns like 'attempt', 'effort', 'policy', or 'notion'.
Synonyms
02having the wrong idea
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. describes a person who is mistaken or has been led to believe something that is not true.
adj. having or showing faulty judgment or reasoning; misled by incorrect information or bad advice.
“He was misguided in thinking that he could finish the project without any help.”
“Though his intentions were noble, he was misguided in his belief that a single speech could resolve decades of social conflict.”
Usage
Frequently follows the verb 'to be' and is often followed by 'in' plus a gerund or 'to' plus an infinitive.
Teaching tip
Teachers should note that this word often implies the person had good intentions but simply made a mistake in their reasoning.
Real-World Examples
“She came to believe that kind of hope was misguided, noting that many safety leaders in AI labs were “over-optimistic” about the influence they could have.” “To those who wish to protect me by denying me the choice to use my body to help my friends, your concern is misguided.” - 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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