Definition of mishapnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun mishap differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of mishap are adversity, mischance, and misfortune. While all these words mean "adverse fortune or an instance of this," mishap applies to an often trivial instance of bad luck.

the usual mishaps of a family vacation

When is it sensible to use adversity instead of mishap?

The words adversity and mishap are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, adversity applies to a state of grave or persistent misfortune.

had never experienced great adversity

When can mischance be used instead of mishap?

The meanings of mischance and mishap largely overlap; however, mischance applies especially to a situation involving no more than slight inconvenience or minor annoyance.

took the wrong road by mischance

In what contexts can misfortune take the place of mishap?

The synonyms misfortune and mishap are sometimes interchangeable, but misfortune may apply to either the incident or conjunction of events that is the cause of an unhappy change of fortune or to the ensuing state of distress.

never lost hope even in the depths of misfortune

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of mishap Rice and Texas State began without delay after the mishap. Zoe Collins Rath, Austin American Statesman, 2 Jan. 2026 Joanna shared some insight into her Christmas decorating strategy in November on Instagram — while also getting candid about a relatable mishap. Marina Watts, PEOPLE, 30 Dec. 2025 The apparent naming mishap in The Four Spent the Day Together casts these variations in a less flattering light. Rosa Lyster, Harpers Magazine, 30 Dec. 2025 About Time The time-traveling main character in this film uses his powers to go back in time to fix a New Year's Eve kiss, as well as many other mishaps throughout the course of his life. Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 30 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for mishap
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mishap
Noun
  • Thai authorities are now investigating the incident, which follows a series of other fatal accidents which have been blamed on safty lapses, the BBC reported.
    Becca Longmire, PEOPLE, 14 Jan. 2026
  • An investigation identified the suspect as 23-year-old Sidney Dillon Pittman, who lives at the home the delivery driver visited by accident, court records show.
    Mark Price, Charlotte Observer, 13 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • That film starring Gerard Butler and Morena Baccarin had the misfortune of opening during the pandemic and going straight to VOD.
    Mia Galuppo, HollywoodReporter, 10 Jan. 2026
  • Merriam-Webster defines it as the description of someone or something in a state of possibly irreversible misfortune and hardship.
    Brenda Looper, Washington Post, 8 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • In the fictional story of the Shakespeare family, their family tragedy leads Shakespeare to write Hamlet.
    Yamillah Hurtado, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026
  • And that would be the real tragedy.
    Nicole Sganga, CBS News, 11 Jan. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Mishap.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mishap. Accessed 15 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on mishap

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