misunderstanding

1 of 2

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

misunderstanding

2 of 2

present participle of misunderstand

Synonyms of misunderstanding

Noun

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

Examples of misunderstanding in a Sentence

Noun

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

Noun

The goal is pure pleasure, not a statement or message; the worst-case scenario is indifference or mild disappointment—not, say, horror at your fundamental misunderstanding of a long-standing personal relationship. — Molly Fischer, New Yorker, 2 Nov. 2026

But they could also be described as misconceptions, misunderstandings, or straight up bad information. — Alex Robinson, Outdoor Life, 1 Nov. 2026

As with any such topic, there are all kinds of myths and misunderstandings out there. — Justin Pot, Popular Science, 31 Oct. 2026

As Philip awaits trial at home, Lucy processes the shock, too smart to believe this is all some awful misunderstanding. — Los Angeles Times, 30 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

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