misconception
An incorrect understanding or interpretation based on faulty thinking
Examples
In a meeting
“There's a common misconception that our premium tier includes unlimited storage.”
Over coffee
“It's a misconception that you need to drink eight glasses of water daily.”
Why this word
misunderstanding
Misconception is a deeply held incorrect belief, while misunderstanding can be temporary confusion
mistake
Misconception is a systematic error in understanding, not just a one-time error
confusion
Misconception is a specific false belief, while confusion is general lack of clarity
Usage tip
Use to identify and correct widespread false beliefs or misunderstandings
Etymology
From 'mis-' (wrongly) + 'conception' (Latin 'conceptio', from 'concipere', to take in)
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Related words
visualize
To form a mental picture or create a visual representation
comprehension
The ability to understand the meaning or importance of something
decipher
To figure out or understand something difficult or unclear
grasp
To fully understand a concept or idea
clarification
An explanation that makes something clearer
perspective
A particular way of viewing or thinking about something