misunderstanding

noun

mis·​un·​der·​stand·​ing (ˌ)mi-ˌsən-dər-ˈstan-diŋ 

1

: a failure to understand : misinterpretation

The instructions were carefully written to prevent misunderstanding.

2

: quarrel, disagreement

an unfortunate misunderstanding between two old friends

Synonyms of misunderstanding

• mistake
• misinterpretation
• misreading
• misconstruction
• incomprehension
• misimpression

Examples of misunderstanding in a Sentence

The instructions are carefully written in order to avoid misunderstanding.

Her comments reflect a misunderstanding of the basic problem.

using clear language to avoid misunderstandings

an unfortunate misunderstanding between old friends

We had our little misunderstandings in the past but we managed to clear them up long ago.

Recent Examples on the Web

Carlson, however, dismissed the complaints from rival programs as largely stemming from either jealousy or misunderstandings. — Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 23 July 2026

Yet this technology has not eliminated the problem of cultural misunderstanding or marketing snafus. — Karen Stollznow, The Conversation, 23 July 2026

Whenever people work together, there will be occasions for frustration, misunderstandings and differences of opinion. — Candice Gottlieb-Clark, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026

Getting on the same page early can prevent the kind of small misunderstandings that turn into larger fights later. — Ashley Lynch, Sacbee.com, 22 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for misunderstanding

• banding
• branding
• handing
• landing
• sanding
• standing
• stranding
• commanding
• demanding
• disbanding
• expanding
• freestanding

Kids Definition

misunderstanding

noun

mis·​un·​der·​stand·​ing

(ˌ)mis-ˌən-dər-ˈstan-diŋ

1

: a failure to understand

2

: disagreement sense 2b, quarrel