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Misconceptions: meaning, definitions and examples

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misconceptions

 

[ ˌmɪskənˈsɛpʃənz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

common beliefs

Misconceptions are ideas or opinions that are incorrect or based on faulty reasoning. These beliefs are often widely held, but they are not supported by facts or evidence.

Synonyms

fallacies, misunderstandings, myths.

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Word Description / Examples
misconceptions

This is the plural form of 'misconception' and is used in the same contexts but refers to multiple incorrect beliefs or ideas.

  • Misconceptions about climate change can hinder efforts to address environmental issues.
  • There are many misconceptions surrounding mental health that need to be addressed.
misunderstandings

This word is used when there is a failure to understand something correctly, often leading to confusion or incorrect conclusions. It can be used in personal, social, or professional contexts.

  • Their argument was based on a simple misunderstanding of each other's intentions.
  • Misunderstandings in communication can cause major issues in the workplace.
myths

This term is used to describe widely held but false beliefs or ideas, often related to cultural or traditional folklore. It can also refer to exaggerated and untrue stories or ideas in general.

  • The myth of the Loch Ness Monster continues to attract tourists to Scotland.
  • There are many myths about what is effective for losing weight.

Examples of usage

  • Many people have misconceptions about vaccines, thinking they cause autism.
  • There are numerous misconceptions about the origins of certain superstitions.

Translations

Translations of the word "misconceptions" in other languages:

🇵🇹 conceitos errados

🇮🇳 ग़लतफ़हमियाँ

🇩🇪 Missverständnisse

🇮🇩 kesalahpahaman

🇺🇦 непорозуміння

🇵🇱 nieporozumienia

🇯🇵 誤解

🇫🇷 idées fausses

🇪🇸 conceptos erróneos

🇹🇷 yanlış anlamalar

🇰🇷 오해

🇸🇦 مفاهيم خاطئة

🇨🇿 nesprávné představy

🇸🇰 nesprávne predstavy

🇨🇳 误解

🇸🇮 napačne predstave

🇮🇸 ranghugmyndir

🇰🇿 қате түсініктер

🇬🇪 არასწორი წარმოდგენები

🇦🇿 yanlış anlayışlar

🇲🇽 conceptos erróneos

Etymology

The word 'misconception' originated in the late 16th century, derived from the prefix 'mis-' meaning 'badly' and the word 'conception.' It has been used to describe false beliefs or ideas that are not in line with reality. Over time, the term has become commonly used in various fields to address inaccuracies and misunderstandings.

See also: preconception.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,233, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.