misunderstanding
noun
mis·un·der·stand·ing
(ˌ)mi-ˌsən-dər-ˈstan-diŋ 
1
: a failure to understand : misinterpretation
The instructions were carefully written to prevent misunderstanding.
2
: quarrel, disagreement
an unfortunate misunderstanding between two old friends
Examples of misunderstanding in a Sentence
The instructions are carefully written in order to avoid misunderstanding.
Her comments reflect a misunderstanding of the basic problem.
using clear language to avoid misunderstandings
an unfortunate misunderstanding between old friends
We had our little misunderstandings in the past but we managed to clear them up long ago.
Recent Examples on the Web
But train yourself to also view it as an invitation to learn something new, to clarify misunderstandings and to connect with parts of the relationship that go unnoticed, conveniently.
Conflict is not a sign of dysfunction when handled constructively.
—
Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 26 May 2025
The topic grabbed media attention and continues to inspire strong emotions, but most of the discussions include numerous misunderstandings.
—Katrina Kimport, The Conversation, 23 May 2025
Instructions are printed on the envelope for both the driver and the officer and can be presented at the time of a stop or police event, helping to reduce anxiety, prevent misunderstandings and to build trust.
—Mike Danahey, Chicago Tribune, 19 May 2025
Scheffler characterized that incident as a misunderstanding and still played in that tournament.
—Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 19 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for misunderstanding
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
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Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 26 May 2025
The topic grabbed media attention and continues to inspire strong emotions, but most of the discussions include numerous misunderstandings.
—Katrina Kimport, The Conversation, 23 May 2025
Instructions are printed on the envelope for both the driver and the officer and can be presented at the time of a stop or police event, helping to reduce anxiety, prevent misunderstandings and to build trust.
—Mike Danahey, Chicago Tribune, 19 May 2025
Scheffler characterized that incident as a misunderstanding and still played in that tournament.
—Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 19 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for misunderstanding
Cite this Entry
“Misunderstanding.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/misunderstanding. Accessed 2 Jun. 2025.
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