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noun

misdirection

Misdirection (noun) means the act of steering someone's attention or effort the wrong way, often deliberately, as in magic tricks. Example: “The magician used misdirection to hide the coin up his sleeve.”

noun
1
The act of steering someone's attention or effort the wrong way, often deliberately, as in magic tricks.
"The magician used misdirection to hide the coin up his sleeve."
2
A legal error made by a judge in instructing a jury.
"The appeal succeeded on the grounds of judicial misdirection."

How to use misdirection

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishPointing attention or effort the wrong way, sometimes on purpose.

Common pairings
a classic misdirection sleight of hand and misdirection

Word forms

misdirections plural

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The magician used _____ to hide the coin up his sleeve.

Etymology

From mis- + direction.

Related words

Rhymes for misdirection

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Frequently asked questions

What does “misdirection” mean?

The word “misdirection” means the act of steering someone's attention or effort the wrong way, often deliberately, as in magic tricks. In plain terms, pointing attention or effort the wrong way, sometimes on purpose.

How do you use “misdirection” in a sentence?

Here is “misdirection” used in a sentence: “The magician used misdirection to hide the coin up his sleeve.”

What part of speech is “misdirection”?

“Misdirection” is a noun.

How many meanings does “misdirection” have?

“Misdirection” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act of steering someone's attention or effort the wrong way, often deliberately, as in magic tricks.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial