# misinformation

/ˌmɪsɪnfɝˈmeɪʃən/ (US) · /mˌɪsɪnfəmˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/misinformation
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

false or incorrect information that is shared, even if the person sharing it does not mean to trick you.

For teachers: false or inaccurate information that is spread, regardless of an intent to deceive. Often contrasted with 'disinformation', which implies a deliberate attempt to mislead.

## Examples

- The article was full of misinformation about the new law.
- Social media platforms struggle to stop the spread of misinformation during election cycles when false stories go viral quickly.
- While some errors are honest mistakes, the cumulative effect of misinformation can erode public trust in scientific institutions and complicate the implementation of necessary health policies.

## Pitfalls

- Not "these misinformations" but "this misinformation" — Misinformation is uncountable and does not have a plural form; use 'pieces of misinformation' if you need to count individual instances.

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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.