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
That means better customer service, stronger relationships with clients and partners, and more personalized interactions.
AI as a tool — not a replacement
A common misunderstanding among small businesses is that AI will make their operations more transactional and less personal.
—
Chris Gallagher, USA Today, 27 Mar. 2025
On another note, an old friend or sibling may suddenly reach out, prompting you to confront old misunderstandings.
—Valerie Mesa, People.com, 27 Mar. 2025
Front-line employees can either supercharge their efforts through AI or hold back the value of transformation through misuse or misunderstanding.
—Jason Snyder, Forbes.com, 27 Mar. 2025
Simplifying language enhances accessibility and reduces misunderstandings.
—Meeri Savolainen, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for misunderstanding
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
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Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
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Chris Gallagher, USA Today, 27 Mar. 2025
On another note, an old friend or sibling may suddenly reach out, prompting you to confront old misunderstandings.
—Valerie Mesa, People.com, 27 Mar. 2025
Front-line employees can either supercharge their efforts through AI or hold back the value of transformation through misuse or misunderstanding.
—Jason Snyder, Forbes.com, 27 Mar. 2025
Simplifying language enhances accessibility and reduces misunderstandings.
—Meeri Savolainen, Forbes, 19 Mar. 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 31 Mar. 2025.
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