misunderstand

verb

UK/ˌmɪs.ʌn.dəˈstænd/
US/ˌmɪs.ʌn.dɚˈstænd/

Definitions of misunderstand verb

  1. B2TransitiveIntransitive

    to incorrectly interpret or understand something or someone

    • He misunderstood my intention, thinking I was criticizing him.

    • I believe they have misunderstood the purpose of this policy.

    • Due to a communication error, we misunderstood each other's instructions.

Phrases of misunderstand verb

  • be misunderstood

    When an individual is misunderstood, it implies others fail to recognize their positive traits.

    Sometimes, my good intentions can be misunderstood, leaving me feeling frustrated.