Misstep: meaning, definitions and examples

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misstep

[ ˈmɪsˌstɛp ]

^{Context #1}

in dance

A misstep is a mistake made while dancing, such as stepping in the wrong direction or at the wrong time.

Synonyms

blunder, error, mistake

Examples of usage

She recovered quickly from her misstep and continued the routine.
His misstep caused a slight stumble, but he quickly regained his balance.

^{Context #2}

in general

A misstep is a mistake or error in judgment or action.

Synonyms

error, fault, mistake

Examples of usage

The CEO's misstep led to a significant drop in company stock.
She realized her misstep in trusting him too quickly.

Translations

Translations of the word "misstep" in other languages:

🇵🇹 erro

🇮🇳 त्रुटि

🇩🇪 Fehler

🇮🇩 kesalahan

🇺🇦 помилка

🇵🇱 błąd

🇯🇵 間違い (machigai)

🇫🇷 erreur

🇪🇸 error

🇹🇷 hata

🇰🇷 실수 (sil-su)

🇸🇦 خطأ (khatā')

🇨🇿 chyba

🇸🇰 chyba

🇨🇳 错误 (cuòwù)

🇸🇮 napaka

🇮🇸 villa

🇰🇿 қате

🇬🇪 შეცდომა (shecdoma)

🇦🇿 səhv

🇲🇽 error

Word origin

The word 'misstep' originated in the early 19th century, combining 'mis-' (meaning wrong or badly) and 'step'. It initially referred to a literal false step or stumble, especially in dance. Over time, the meaning expanded to include figurative mistakes or errors in judgment. The word is commonly used in both literal and metaphorical contexts to describe a misjudgment or misfortune.

See also: missteps, overstep, sidestep, step, steppe, stepping, steps.