Misdirected: meaning, definitions and examples
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misdirected
[ˌmɪsdɪˈrɛktɪd ]
Definition
wrong direction
Misdirected refers to something that has been sent or guided incorrectly, whether it be information, messages, or actions. It implies a failure in the intended target or destination, leading to confusion or misunderstanding. This term can be applied in various contexts such as communication, shipping, or even personal behavior. The fundamental characteristic of something misdirected is that it strays from its intended course.
Synonyms
incorrect, misguided, misplaced, off-target.
Examples of usage
- The misdirected package was sent to the wrong address.
- Her misdirected anger affected her relationships.
- He received a misdirected text that was meant for someone else.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The prefix 'mis-' comes from Old English, meaning 'wrongly' or 'badly', indicating an error or mistake.
- The root 'direct' comes from the Latin 'directus', meaning 'straight, lined up' – so misdirected means not going straight.
- The concept has been used in various contexts, from navigation to communication, showcasing its broad applicability.
Psychology
- In decision-making, misdirections can occur when people fail to evaluate all options properly, leading to poor choices.
- Misdirected thoughts can result in cognitive biases, where individuals focus on irrelevant facts instead of the main issue.
- Cognitive dissonance often leads to misdirected feelings, where someone believes one thing but acts in a way contrary to that belief.
Technology
- In computer systems, data can be misdirected in networks, causing packets to arrive at the wrong destination, impacting communication.
- Misdirected advertising efforts can occur when campaigns target the wrong audience, wasting resources and missing potential customers.
- Software glitches can lead to misdirected outputs, causing programs to behave unpredictably and leading to errors.
Literature
- In storytelling, characters often face misdirection that leads to plot twists; for example, a detective might follow false leads.
- Many classical works explore themes of misdirection, portraying how misunderstandings can alter events and character fates.
- The concept is prevalent in poetry as well, where metaphors might misdirect readers’ interpretations, adding depth and complexity.
Pop Culture
- In movies, a common trope is the character who is misdirected by misinformation, leading to a comical or tragic situation.
- Many plot-driven video games include elements where players are misdirected to enhance challenge and engagement.
- Television shows often utilize misdirection to surprise audiences, crafting scenarios that lead viewers to incorrect conclusions about the storyline.
Translations
Translations of the word "misdirected" in other languages:
🇵🇹 mal direcionado
🇮🇳 गलत दिशा में
🇩🇪 fehlgeleitet
🇮🇩 salah arah
🇺🇦 неправильно направлений
🇵🇱 źle ukierunkowany
🇯🇵 誤った方向に向けられた
🇫🇷 mal dirigé
🇪🇸 mal dirigido
🇹🇷 yanlış yönlendirilmiş
🇰🇷 잘못된 방향으로 향한
🇸🇦 موجه بشكل خاطئ
🇨🇿 špatně nasměrovaný
🇸🇰 nesprávne nasmerovaný
🇨🇳 错误导向的
🇸🇮 napačno usmerjen
🇮🇸 rangað ranglega
🇰🇿 қате бағытталған
🇬🇪 არასწორად მიმართული
🇦🇿 səhv yönləndirilmiş
🇲🇽 mal dirigido