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Synonyms

misunderstanding

American  
[mis-uhn-der-stan-ding] / ˌmɪs ʌn dərˈstæn dɪŋ /

noun

  1. failure to understand correctly; mistake as to meaning or intent.

    Synonyms:
    misconception, error, misapprehension
  2. a disagreement or quarrel.

    Synonyms:
    dissension, difficulty, difference, discord
    Antonyms:
    concord

misunderstanding British  
/ ˌmɪsʌndəˈstændɪŋ /

noun

  1. a failure to understand properly

  2. a disagreement

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • misunderstandingly adverb

Etymology

Origin of misunderstanding

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English; mis- 1 + understanding

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.

One of the most common misunderstandings about tariffs is who pays them.

From MarketWatch

Gentle parenting has become a contentious topic, but Kelly believes much of this stems from misunderstanding.

From BBC

He’s working on honest communication with his wife to avoid misunderstandings.

From Los Angeles Times

I call it a misunderstanding... with the fans of Arsenal.

From BBC

“Ten minutes before this press conference, Home Depot has been blowing me up, my office and spreading lies this was just a simple misunderstanding,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times