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.

They misunderstand the proper role of an economic system.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

What do audiences underestimate or misunderstand about what it takes to make a comedy?

From Los Angeles Times • May 26, 2026

Kaufman acknowledged mistakes can occur, but suggested many complaints arise when parents complete age checks on behalf of their children or misunderstand the process.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

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

When we misunderstand each other, we listen again.

From "Piecing Me Together" by Renée Watson

misunderstand

Example Sentences

Related Words