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
But focusing on that figure alone shows a fundamental misunderstanding of civics, said James Owens, a spokesman for DeGette’s campaign.
—
Elliott Wenzler, Denver Post, 31 May 2026
Political leaders and regulators have failed in parallel, whether through misunderstanding, passivity, or fascination with the technology itself.
—Christopher Marquis, Time, 30 May 2026
However, the idea that the World Cup will somehow become a major conduit for Ebola transmission in the United States reflects a misunderstanding of both how Ebola spreads and the realities of international travel.
—Krutika Kuppalli, STAT, 28 May 2026
Important details get lost, misunderstandings creep in, and decisions slow down.
—Stackcommerce Team, PC Magazine, 28 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for misunderstanding
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Elliott Wenzler, Denver Post, 31 May 2026
Political leaders and regulators have failed in parallel, whether through misunderstanding, passivity, or fascination with the technology itself.
—Christopher Marquis, Time, 30 May 2026
However, the idea that the World Cup will somehow become a major conduit for Ebola transmission in the United States reflects a misunderstanding of both how Ebola spreads and the realities of international travel.
—Krutika Kuppalli, STAT, 28 May 2026
Important details get lost, misunderstandings creep in, and decisions slow down.
—Stackcommerce Team, PC Magazine, 28 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 2 Jun. 2026.
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