Mistaken: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone holds a belief or performs an action based on a misunderstanding or lack of correct information. Often applies to opinions, views, or assumptions.

• You are mistaken if you think it will be easy.
• She was mistaken about the time of the meeting.

A broad term that can be used in many situations. Often implies a more subjective or general error, and can have a stronger negative connotation.

• You got the answer wrong.
• She wants to prove that his theory is wrong.

A general term used to describe anything that is not right. Usually used in straightforward situations where a mistake is evident, such as answers, actions, or statements.

• Your answer to the question is incorrect.
• The spelling of his name was incorrect on the form.

Appropriate in formal situations to describe information or conclusions that are based on errors or incorrect data. Often used in academic or professional contexts.

• The report contained several erroneous assumptions.
• His erroneous interpretation of the data led to a wrong conclusion.

Typically used to describe information or statements that are intentionally or unintentionally untrue. It can imply a stronger sense of inaccuracy or deceit.

• The rumors about his resignation are false.
• She provided false information on the application.

Used when someone has an incorrect belief or assumption about something.

• I was mistaken about the date of the meeting.
• He is mistaken if he thinks I'll help him cheat.

Used when someone fails to differentiate between things or doesn't understand something clearly.

• Don't confuse fiction with reality.
• The instructions confused me.

Usually refers to a situation where things are mixed together by mistake, leading to confusion; often involves physical objects or arrangements.

• There's been a mix-up with the booking dates.
• I mixed up the files and handed out the wrong reports.

Used when someone incorrectly understands the meaning or intent of something.

• She misinterpreted his silence as anger.
• He misinterpreted the data, leading to wrong conclusions.