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
Episode 2 of the first series sees a huge misunderstanding on the phone cause Gavin to have to drive to Wales to resolve his relationship.
—
Max Goldbart, Deadline, 14 May 2026
These misunderstandings, unfortunately, have happened between students and law enforcement around the country.
—Dennis Valera, CBS News, 13 May 2026
In the comments, residents expressed frustration over misunderstanding which roads would be closed.
—Nicole Buss, Sacbee.com, 13 May 2026
Any talks between the United States and China over AI regulations — designing some kind of arms control agreement governing the use of a technology that neither side fully understands or controls — will be fraught with suspicion, misunderstandings and risk, experts say.
—Los Angeles Times, 11 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for misunderstanding
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Max Goldbart, Deadline, 14 May 2026
These misunderstandings, unfortunately, have happened between students and law enforcement around the country.
—Dennis Valera, CBS News, 13 May 2026
In the comments, residents expressed frustration over misunderstanding which roads would be closed.
—Nicole Buss, Sacbee.com, 13 May 2026
Any talks between the United States and China over AI regulations — designing some kind of arms control agreement governing the use of a technology that neither side fully understands or controls — will be fraught with suspicion, misunderstandings and risk, experts say.
—Los Angeles Times, 11 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for misunderstanding
Cite this Entry
“Misunderstanding.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/misunderstanding. Accessed 18 May. 2026.
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