# misinterpretation

/mɪsɪnˌtɝpɹəˈteɪʃən/ (US) · /mˌɪsɪntˌɜːpɹɪtˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/misinterpretation
Updated: 2026-10-13

## Definition

a mistake in understanding something. It happens when you think someone means one thing, but they actually mean something else.

For teachers: a failure to understand or explain something correctly. Refers to the resulting incorrect conclusion or the act of forming it.

## Examples

- The argument started because of a simple misinterpretation of his text.
- The diplomat's silence led to a dangerous misinterpretation of his country's actual intentions regarding the treaty.
- Scholars argue that the current policy is based on a fundamental misinterpretation of the original constitutional text, leading to unintended legal consequences.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the preposition 'of' to specify the source of the confusion.

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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.