B1nounrelationshipslanguage
US/ˌmɪs.ʌn.dərˈstæn.dɪŋ/
UK/ˌmɪs.ʌn.dəˈstæn.dɪŋ/
a failure to understand something correctly, or a small argument caused by this
In context
There was a misunderstanding about the time of the meeting.
I think this is all a big misunderstanding, and I can explain.
Clear instructions help to avoid misunderstandings between colleagues.
Words that go with misunderstanding
adjective + noun
- a big misunderstandingIt was just a big misunderstanding.
- cultural misunderstandingCultural misunderstandings are common when you travel abroad.
verb + noun
- clear up a misunderstandingLet me clear up a misunderstanding about the price.
- avoid misunderstandingsWriting it down helps avoid misunderstandings.
- cause a misunderstandingHis joke caused a misunderstanding.
noun + preposition
- a misunderstanding aboutThere was a misunderstanding about who would pay.
- a misunderstanding betweenA misunderstanding between the two teams led to a delay.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
a misunderstandCorrect: a misunderstanding
Incorrect:
misunderstanding aboutCorrect: a misunderstanding about