Mismanage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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mismanage
[ˌmɪsˈmænɪdʒ ]
Definitions
workplace
To manage or control poorly or incompetently, resulting in inefficiency or failure.
Synonyms
misconduct, misdirect, mishandle.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mismanage |
This is used when talking about poor or inefficient management, especially of a business or organization. It suggests a lack of proper skills or attention.
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| mishandle |
This is used when referring to the incorrect or poor handling of an object or situation. It suggests clumsiness or lack of care but does not necessarily imply intentional harm.
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| misconduct |
This usually refers to inappropriate or illegal behavior, often in a professional setting. It carries a negative connotation and implies a breach of accepted standards or ethics.
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| misdirect |
This term is used when something or someone is directed incorrectly, such as giving wrong instructions or sending something to the wrong place. It often implies a mistake rather than intentional wrongdoing.
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Examples of usage
- He mismanaged the project and it ended up over budget.
- The CEO was accused of mismanaging company funds.
- If you continue to mismanage your time, you will never meet your deadlines.
financial
To handle or govern money or resources poorly, often leading to financial loss.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mismanage |
Used when referring to poor administration or handling of a project, organization, or funds, often leading to negative consequences.
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| squander |
Used when someone wastes resources, such as time or money, in an irresponsible or careless manner.
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| mishandle |
Used when describing improper handling or dealing with a situation, object, or responsibility, sometimes leading to damage or adverse outcomes.
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| misuse |
Used when referring to incorrect or inappropriate use of something, especially intentionally, which often carries a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The treasurer mismanaged the organization's budget, leading to a financial crisis.
- She mismanaged her inheritance and quickly found herself in debt.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Studies show that poor management can lead to increased stress levels among workers, impacting mental health.
- Decision-making flaws often arise from cognitive biases, which can cause someone to mismanage resources or team dynamics.
- Effective leadership training emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, which helps prevent mismanagement.
Business & Economics
- Mismanagement in companies can result in significant financial losses, sometimes leading to bankruptcy.
- The 2008 financial crisis highlighted how regulatory mismanagement contributed to widespread economic failure.
- Organizations often face restructuring after periods of mismanagement, aiming to improve efficiency and restore trust.
Pop Culture
- Movies often depict characters who mismanage their lives, leading to humorous or dramatic outcomes, such as in 'The Office'.
- Reality TV shows frequently highlight mismanagement as contestants struggle with tasks, teaching lessons about teamwork.
- Many popular songs focus on relationships, citing mismanagement of emotions and trust as central themes.
History
- Historical events often show the effects of mismanagement, such as the fall of empires due to poor leadership decisions.
- Some wars have been attributed to mismanagement of resources, illustrating the deep consequences of leadership mistakes.
- The sinking of the Titanic was partly due to mismanagement of information and inadequate preparedness.
Origin of 'mismanage'
Main points about word origin
- 'Mismanage' is formed by adding 'mis-' (meaning bad or wrong) to 'manage', which comes from the Latin word 'manus' meaning hand.
- The word entered the English language in the early 19th century, reflecting growing concerns about leadership and governance.
- Many similar words exist, like 'misjudge' and 'mislead', showcasing how 'mis-' changes the meaning to something negative.
The word 'mismanage' originated from the combination of 'mis-' meaning 'badly' or 'wrongly', and 'manage' meaning 'to control or direct'. It first appeared in the early 19th century. The concept of mismanagement has been a concern in various fields, from business to personal finance, highlighting the importance of effective leadership and resource allocation.
See also: manageability, manageable, manageableness, managed, management, manager, managerial, managerially, managers, managing, mismanagement, mismanager, unmanageability, unmanageable.