Definitions

mistook

[mi-stook] / mɪˈstʊk /

VERB

mix up, misunderstand

Synonyms

STRONGEST

confuse miscalculate misconstrue misinterpret misjudge misread overestimate overlook underestimate

STRONG

addle blunder botch bungle confound err fail goof jumble lapse misapprehend misconceive miscount miss omit slip snarl tangle

WEAK

be off the mark be wrong deceive oneself get wrong have wrong impression make a mess misdeem misknow miss the boat not know put foot in slip up take for

Antonyms

STRONGEST

understand

STRONG

accomplish achieve clear up correct do well fix succeed uncomplicate

WEAK

be certain be sure comprehend interpret perceive

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

At least 59 detainees were freed because the system mistook them for other people.

From Barron's • Mar. 17, 2026

When I was young, I mistook restraint for weakness and anger for honesty.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 16, 2026

When Close introduced herself and shook her hand, she was left starstruck, and got the giggles when Mila Kunis mistook her for an extra, rather than an actual vicar.

From BBC • Nov. 28, 2025

The restaurant initially mistook Paul for his identical twin "coming back for seconds" and denied him any food.

From BBC • May 31, 2025

These he evidently mistook for polar snow, for he began to peck at the window vigorously.

From "Mr. Popper's Penguins" by Florence Atwater and Richard Atwater