misunderstand
verb (used with object)
to take (words, statements, etc.) in a wrong sense; understand wrongly.
have misunderstood
-
present perfectof misunderstand.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The batter looked almost suspiciously vegetable-heavy going into the oven, the sort of mixture that makes you wonder whether you have misunderstood either baking or gardening.
From Salon ● Aug. 31, 2026
The short answer: Your accountant has their wires crossed — or you may have misunderstood what they said.
From MarketWatch ● May 18, 2026
There has been no official response from Ruto's government, but some Kenyans have defended him online, arguing that critics have misunderstood the intent of his remarks and missed the humour.
From BBC ● Apr. 24, 2026
Berkshire recently became more attractive in part because the market seems to have misunderstood its earnings report over the weekend, according to money manager and Buffettologist Christopher Bloomstran.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 6, 2026
He may have misunderstood the biological basis of human heredity—but at least he understood what to do about it.
From "The Gene" by Siddhartha Mukherjee
