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Misconception: meaning, definitions and examples

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misconception

 

[ ˌmɪskənˈsɛpʃən ]

Noun
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

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

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

Translations of the word "misconception" in other languages:

🇵🇹 conceito errado

🇮🇳 ग़लतफ़हमी

🇩🇪 Missverständnis

🇮🇩 kesalahpahaman

🇺🇦 неправильне уявлення

🇵🇱 nieporozumienie

🇯🇵 誤解 (gokai)

🇫🇷 idée fausse

🇪🇸 concepto erróneo

🇹🇷 yanlış anlama

🇰🇷 오해 (ohae)

🇸🇦 سوء فهم

🇨🇿 mylná představa

🇸🇰 mylná predstava

🇨🇳 误解 (wùjiě)

🇸🇮 napačen vtis

🇮🇸 misskilningur

🇰🇿 қате түсінік

🇬🇪 არასწორი წარმოდგენა

🇦🇿 yanlış təsəvvür

🇲🇽 concepto erróneo

Etymology

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.