Wrongly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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wrongly

[ˈrɒŋli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

used in a sentence

In a way that is incorrect or mistaken.

Synonyms

erroneously, incorrectly, mistakenly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wrongly

Used to describe actions or decisions that are morally or ethically incorrect.

  • He was wrongly accused of the crime.
  • The teacher wrongly punished the student for something they didn't do.
incorrectly

Used to describe something that lacks accuracy or is factually incorrect.

  • The math problem was incorrectly solved.
  • He answered the question incorrectly.
mistakenly

Used to indicate misunderstanding or accidental errors, often with unintended consequences.

  • She mistakenly took the wrong train.
  • The letter was mistakenly sent to the wrong address.
erroneously

Used in formal or academic contexts to indicate an error in facts, data, or logic.

  • The report was erroneously filed under the wrong category.
  • She was erroneously informed about the meeting time.

Examples of usage

  • He spelled my name wrongly.
  • She interpreted his words wrongly.
  • I was wrongly accused of stealing the money.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Humans have an innate ability to perceive 'wrong' from a young age, aiding in moral development.
  • Cognitive dissonance can occur when a person acts 'wrongly' but believes their actions should be considered right.
  • Research shows that feelings of guilt and shame often arise when someone realizes they have acted 'wrongly', influencing future behavior.

Literature

  • Classic literature often explores themes of morality, highlighting characters who act 'wrongly' and the consequences they face.
  • Shakespeare’s works frequently depict the struggle between right and wrong, showcasing characters making misguided choices.
  • In modern literature, anti-heroes often embody 'wrongly' actions that challenge traditional notions of good and evil.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures define 'wrong' and 'right' based on societal norms, which can vary widely worldwide.
  • In certain cultures, the concept of 'wrongly' can also be tied to spiritual beliefs, influencing behavior and community standards.
  • The media often plays a role in shaping perceptions of what is 'wrongly' done, especially in reporting on social issues.

Pop Culture

  • Popular songs frequently touch on themes of feeling 'wrongly' treated in relationships, resonating with many listeners.
  • Movies often feature protagonists who wrongly navigate their lives, leading to dramatic twists and character growth.
  • Television shows often portray the comedic consequences of characters acting 'wrongly', providing both humor and moral lessons.

Origin of 'wrongly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'wrongly' comes from the Old English 'wrang', which means 'crooked' or 'twisted'.
  • It is formed by adding the suffix '-ly' to 'wrong', which indicates the manner of doing something.
  • The concept of 'wrong' has deep roots in moral philosophy, where it contrasts with 'right' and is often linked to fairness and justice.

The adverb 'wrongly' originated from Middle English, with the word 'wrong' dating back to the 13th century. It has evolved over time to represent the idea of doing something incorrectly or mistakenly. The use of 'wrongly' in sentences helps to convey the notion of error or misjudgment.


See also: wrongdoer, wrongdoing, wrongdoings, wronged, wrongfully, wrongness.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,422, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.