Misbelief Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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misbelief
[ˌmɪs.bɪˈliːf ]
Definition
in psychology
A misbelief is a false or mistaken belief that is held despite evidence to the contrary. It is a cognitive bias that can lead to irrational thinking and decision-making.
Synonyms
delusion, erroneous belief, false belief.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| misbelief |
Similar to 'misbelief', it typically refers to a widely held but incorrect view or notion, often about traditions or customs.
|
| false belief |
A general term for any belief that is incorrect or untrue, often used in everyday conversation.
|
| erroneous belief |
Refers to a specific incorrect belief caused by misunderstanding or misinformation, often used in more formal contexts.
|
| delusion |
Used when someone strongly believes something despite clear evidence to the contrary, often implying a psychological or perceptual issue.
|
Examples of usage
- People with misbeliefs may refuse to accept facts that challenge their beliefs.
- His misbelief that he was invincible led to reckless behavior.
- She held onto her misbelief despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'misbelief'
The word 'misbelief' originated from Middle English, where 'mis-' denoted a negative prefix and 'belief' referred to trust or faith. Over time, it evolved to describe a false or mistaken belief. The concept of misbelief has been studied in psychology to understand how individuals can maintain beliefs that are contradicted by evidence.