misunderstanding
mih-suhn-duh-STAN-dihng
Misunderstanding (noun) means a failure to understand something correctly; a mistaken interpretation. Example: “The whole argument was based on a misunderstanding.”
noun
1
A failure to understand something correctly; a mistaken interpretation.
"The whole argument was based on a misunderstanding."
"A simple misunderstanding about the meeting time left us waiting in different places."
"Her words caused a misunderstanding, so she explained what she really meant."
2
A minor disagreement or falling-out.
"They had a misunderstanding but made up quickly."
"There was a bit of a misunderstanding between the neighbours over the fence."
"After a small misunderstanding, the two friends did not speak for a week."
How to use misunderstanding
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA mix-up in what was meant or understood, or a small disagreement caused by one.
Common pairings
clear up a misunderstanding
a simple misunderstanding
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like misunderstanding.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- misunderstandings
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The whole argument was based on a _____.
Etymology
From misunderstand plus the noun-forming suffix -ing.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for misunderstanding
landing
handing
sanding
standing
branding
demanding
upstanding
commanding
outstanding
understanding
grandstanding
notwithstanding
See all rhymes for misunderstanding →
Frequently asked questions
What does “misunderstanding” mean?
The word “misunderstanding” means a failure to understand something correctly; a mistaken interpretation. In plain terms, a mix-up in what was meant or understood, or a small disagreement caused by one.
How do you pronounce “misunderstanding”?
“Misunderstanding” is pronounced mih-suhn-duh-STAN-dihng (/ˌmɪsʌndɚˈstændɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “misunderstanding” in a sentence?
Here is “misunderstanding” used in a sentence: “The whole argument was based on a misunderstanding.”
What part of speech is “misunderstanding”?
“Misunderstanding” is a noun.
Is “misunderstanding” a common word?
“Misunderstanding” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “misunderstanding” have?
“Misunderstanding” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a failure to understand something correctly; a mistaken interpretation.
What is the difference between a misunderstanding and a disagreement?
A misunderstanding is a failure to understand something correctly, meaning at least one person has a mistaken interpretation of facts or intentions. A disagreement, by contrast, can occur even when both people understand each other perfectly but simply hold different opinions.
Can misunderstanding refer to a falling-out between people, not just a factual error?
Yes, misunderstanding also has a secondary sense meaning a minor disagreement or falling-out between people, often one caused by miscommunication rather than a genuine conflict of interests. This usage is common in phrases like "we had a small misunderstanding."
Is misunderstanding a polite way to describe a conflict?
Yes, calling a conflict a misunderstanding often softens its severity, framing it as a mistaken interpretation or minor falling-out rather than a deliberate or serious dispute.
