Misconstrue: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used in formal or semi-formal settings, especially when referring to someone's words or actions being understood incorrectly. It carries a slight connotation of being more complex or nuanced than a simple misunderstanding.

• His comments were misconstrued as criticism, but he was actually trying to offer helpful advice.
• It's easy to misconstrue the intentions behind an email if you don't know the sender well.

This term is used when someone gets the wrong idea about the meaning of something, like a message, signal, or data. It's common in both academic and everyday situations, but is not inherently negative.

• She misinterpreted the statistics and drew the wrong conclusion.
• He misinterpreted her excitement for approval of his idea.

This is the most general and commonly used term, applied in everyday language when someone fails to grasp the correct meaning of words, actions, or situations. It doesn't necessarily carry a negative connotation.

• I think you misunderstand what I'm trying to say.
• She misunderstood the instructions and did the task incorrectly.

Usually used in situations involving assessments or decisions, this word implies a wrong evaluation of someone's character, actions, or situations. It often carries a slight negative implication as it suggests a failure in judgment.

• I misjudged him at first; he's actually very competent.
• They misjudged the time it would take to complete the project.