Meaning & Definition of word "Misconstrue"
to
Misconstrue
/ˌmɪs.kənˈstruː/
verb:
- 1. To interpret something incorrectly or misunderstand it.
- Example: She misconstrued his comments as an insult when he meant them as a compliment.
- 2. To misinterpret the intention or meaning of someone’s words or actions.
- Example: The reporter misconstrued the politician's statement, leading to widespread confusion.
- 3. To take the meaning of a word or phrase in a way that is different from what was intended.
- Example: He was worried that his words might be misconstrued during the meeting.
- 4. To make a mistaken interpretation of facts or situations.
- Example: When she saw the email, she misconstrued it as a rejection rather than an inquiry.
Etymology
From the prefix 'mis-' meaning 'wrongly' and 'construe', from Latin 'construere' meaning 'to build together'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
misconstrue someone's intentions:
To misunderstand what someone means or intends.
don't misconstrue my words:
A warning not to take what was said in the wrong way.
Related Words
misinterpret:
To interpret something wrongly.
misunderstand:
To fail to understand something correctly.
Slang Meanings of misconstrue
Meaning: Getting the wrong end of the stick
Example Sentence: She really got the wrong end of the stick when he said that.
Meaning: Reading between the lines incorrectly
Example Sentence: I feel like you're reading between the lines incorrectly.