off base

[awf-beys, of-] / ˈɔfˈbeɪs, ˈɒf- /

PHRASE

mistaken; inappropriate; inapt

Synonyms

STRONGEST

erroneous inaccurate mistaken sadly mistaken wrong

STRONG

amiss improper inappropriate unsuitable

WEAK

beside the point inapt malapropos offside out in left field out of line unconnected unrelated

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.

What we are measuring, why we are measuring it, and where we might be off base.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

That is quite the takeaway, not to mention depressingly way off base from the point.

From Salon • Mar. 21, 2026

To Perales, the criticism from strangers was as surprising as it was off base.

From Los Angeles Times • May 23, 2025

Public perception of a double-standard for the wealthy and powerful may not be so off base.

From BBC • Dec. 3, 2024

I need Dr. Crowchild to confirm for me that he’s way off base.

From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam