Misplay Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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misplay

[mɪsˈpleɪ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in sports

To make a mistake or error while playing a game or sport, especially by misjudging a situation or making a wrong move.

Synonyms

mishandle, misinterpret, misjudge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
misplay	Used mostly in sports or games, when someone makes a mistake in executing a move or action. He made a crucial misplay during the final minutes of the basketball game. Her misplay in the chess match cost her the winning position.
mishandle	Used when someone doesn't manage or deal with something properly, which can happen in a variety of situations including business, work, or everyday tasks. The manager mishandled the project, causing delays and budget overruns. They mishandled the fragile package, and it arrived broken.
misjudge	Used when someone makes a wrong judgment or assessment about a person, situation, or ability. He misjudged the distance and ended up falling short of the jump. You shouldn't misjudge her based on first impressions.
misinterpret	Used when someone understands or explains something incorrectly, often related to communication, texts, or symbols. She misinterpreted his comments and thought he was angry. It's easy to misinterpret the meaning of this ancient text.

Examples of usage

He misplayed the ball and cost his team the game.
She misplayed her shot and missed the goal.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in card games

An incorrect or mistaken play in a card game, typically resulting in a disadvantage for the player.

Synonyms

blunder, mishandle, mistake.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
misplay	Used primarily in sports or games to describe an incorrect or poor move. The chess player's misplay cost him the match. The team's misplay in the final minutes led to their defeat.
mishandle	Refers to incorrectly managing or dealing with a situation, item, or task, often resulting in damage or poor outcomes. She mishandled the fragile vase, causing it to break. The police were criticized for mishandling the investigation.
mistake	A general term for any kind of error, often used in everyday situations without strong negative implications. I made a mistake on my homework and had to redo it. It was a simple mistake that anyone could have made.
blunder	Describes a serious mistake often made due to carelessness or lack of skill; generally carries a more negative connotation. The manager's blunder in the financial report caused a lot of confusion. His blunder during the presentation made the audience lose interest.

Examples of usage

His misplay of the ace allowed his opponent to win the hand.
She regretted her misplay as it led to her losing the game.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'misplay'

The word 'misplay' originated in the early 19th century, combining 'mis-' (indicating error or wrongness) with 'play'. It has been used in the context of sports and card games to describe actions that are incorrect or mistaken. The term has evolved to encompass various activities where errors can occur, reflecting the human tendency to make mistakes even in recreational pursuits.