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Definitions

misunderstand

[mis-uhn-der-stand] / ˌmɪs ʌn dərˈstænd /
VERB
get the wrong idea
Synonyms
STRONGEST
confuse miscalculate misconstrue misinterpret misjudge misread
STRONG
confound fail misapply misapprehend misconceive miss mistake
WEAK
be at cross purposes be bewildered be confused be perplexed get signals crossed get signals mixed get wrong get wrong impression miscomprehend misknow misreckon miss the point not register take amiss take wrongly
Antonyms
STRONGEST
understand
STRONG
comprehend succeed
WEAK
construe get grasp 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.

In interviews, he has emphasized that his time working at Trader Joe’s was never something to be ashamed of, but rather only something others chose to misunderstand.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

Doctors say many patients misunderstand the role of the drugs.

From BBC • Mar. 17, 2026

Even some medical professionals misunderstand the aging process, Levy said.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 10, 2026

Morgans says investors concerned about AI threats misunderstand what Pro Medicus offers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 10, 2026

But Theo, how can Theo misunderstand him so?

From "Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers" by Deborah Heiligman

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.