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Misconception Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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misconception

[หŒmษชskษ™nหˆsษ›pสƒษ™n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

common belief

A misconception is a mistaken belief or idea about something. It is often based on false information or a misunderstanding of the facts. Misconceptions can be widespread and can lead to confusion or incorrect assumptions.

Synonyms

delusion, fallacy, misunderstanding.

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Word Description / Examples
misconception

This is used when referring to an incorrect idea or belief that is widely accepted by many people.

  • There is a common misconception that carrots improve your eyesight.
  • It's a misconception that you should wait 30 minutes after eating before swimming.
misunderstanding

This is used when there is a failure to understand something correctly. It commonly refers to a situation where communication breaks down between people.

  • There was a misunderstanding about the meeting time, so no one showed up on time.
  • Their argument was just a big misunderstanding; they actually agree on most points.
fallacy

This word is used to denote a mistaken belief, especially one based on unsound argument. It is often used in logical, academic, or philosophical discussions.

  • The notion that the Earth is flat is a common fallacy disproven by science.
  • The argument is based on a fallacy; therefore, its conclusion is invalid.
delusion

This is used when referring to an individualโ€™s false belief that is strongly held despite evidence to the contrary. It often has a negative connotation and is used in psychological contexts.

  • He suffers from the delusion that he is a famous historical figure.
  • Her delusion about winning the lottery led her to spend all her savings.

Examples of usage

  • Many people have the misconception that all snakes are poisonous.
  • There is a common misconception that sugar causes hyperactivity in children.
  • People often have misconceptions about mental health issues.
Context #2 | Noun

false impression

Another definition of misconception is a false or inaccurate understanding of a situation or concept. This can result from biased opinions, incomplete information, or misinterpretation of events.

Synonyms

false belief, illusion, misapprehension.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
misconception

Often used to indicate an incorrect understanding or belief about something, typically involving a common or widespread misunderstanding.

  • There's a common misconception that eating carrots improves your vision.
  • She had a misconception about the company's return policy.
misapprehension

Used in more formal contexts to indicate a misunderstanding or misinterpretation, often involving a specific and detailed misunderstanding.

  • Her actions were based on a serious misapprehension of the situation.
  • There was a misapprehension about the terms of the contract.
illusion

Typically used to describe a misleading appearance or false idea, often relating to deceptive visual tricks or misleading situations.

  • The magician created the illusion that he was levitating.
  • The companyโ€™s success was just an illusion, hiding its financial problems.
false belief

Used to describe a strongly held belief that is incorrect or not based on reality, often involving more personal or individual inaccurate beliefs.

  • He held a false belief that he was incapable of achieving anything.
  • Her false belief about her friend's loyalty caused unnecessary tension.

Examples of usage

  • She was under the misconception that he was a trustworthy person.
  • Don't let your misconceptions about the situation cloud your judgment.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Cognitive bias can lead to misconceptions, as people often interpret information in a way that confirms their existing beliefs.
  • Research shows that misconceptions are often harder to correct than to form, particularly in educational settings.
  • Social influence plays a significant role; what others believe can shape your understanding, sometimes leading to shared misconceptions.

Education

  • Teaching that addresses studentsโ€™ misconceptions is vital for effective learning โ€“ clarifying misunderstandings enhances knowledge retention.
  • Conceptual change theory explains how students must confront their misconceptions to truly understand new concepts.
  • Teachers often use โ€˜preconceptionsโ€™ assessments to identify and address common misconceptions before introducing new material.

Popular Culture

  • Popular films and books often perpetuate misconceptions about history, leading audiences to believe exaggerated or incorrect stories.
  • Misconceptions about mental health are common in media, where characters often display incorrect symptoms or reactions.
  • Social media can spread misconceptions rapidly, as viral misinformation can create widespread but false beliefs.

Science

  • Many people hold misconceptions about scientific concepts, like the belief that humans only use 10% of their brains.
  • In climate science, misconceptions about data and trends often hinder public understanding of global warming.
  • Misconceptions about evolution, such as the idea that it is 'just a theory,' illustrate how misunderstandings can affect scientific literacy.

Origin of 'misconception'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'mis-', meaning wrong or badly, with 'conception,' which relates to forming an idea.
  • It first appeared in the English language around the late 16th century.
  • In Latin, 'conceptionem' refers to the act of taking in or forming an idea.

The word 'misconception' originated from the combination of the prefix 'mis-' meaning 'wrong or bad' and the noun 'conception' meaning 'understanding or idea'. It first appeared in the English language in the early 17th century. Over time, 'misconception' has been used to describe various false beliefs or inaccurate understandings in different contexts.

See also: conception, conceptual, conceptualizing.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,814, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.