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
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
Davidson’s condition, which leads him to make foul-mouthed outbursts, was barely understood at the time and was the source of misunderstandings, bullying, and harassment.
—
Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 24 Oct. 2025
Even after the misunderstanding, Herrera didn't appear to be upset.
—Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 23 Oct. 2025
His attorneys asserted that the incident was a tragic misunderstanding, fueled by his poor mental state, and that Emerson never intended to harm anyone on board.
—Maddie Garfinkle, PEOPLE, 22 Oct. 2025
The trust economics of modern hospitality Although occupancy rates are important business metrics in the hospitality industry, fixating on them shows a misunderstanding of the economics of hospitality in the digital age.
—Ascend Agency, Oc Register, 21 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for misunderstanding
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Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 24 Oct. 2025
Even after the misunderstanding, Herrera didn't appear to be upset.
—Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 23 Oct. 2025
His attorneys asserted that the incident was a tragic misunderstanding, fueled by his poor mental state, and that Emerson never intended to harm anyone on board.
—Maddie Garfinkle, PEOPLE, 22 Oct. 2025
The trust economics of modern hospitality Although occupancy rates are important business metrics in the hospitality industry, fixating on them shows a misunderstanding of the economics of hospitality in the digital age.
—Ascend Agency, Oc Register, 21 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for misunderstanding
Cite this Entry
“Misunderstanding.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/misunderstanding. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.
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