misguided
UK: /ˌmɪsˈɡaɪ.dɪd/ | US: /ˌmɪsˈɡaɪ.dɪd/
adj. 1. mistaken or incorrect in judgment, action, or belief.
adj. 2. led or directed toward the wrong course or purpose.
The word "misguided" combines the prefix "mis-" (from Old English "mis-," meaning "wrong" or "badly") with the root "guide" (from Old French "guider," meaning "to lead or direct") and the suffix "-ed" (forming past participles or adjectives). The term emerged in Middle English, originally implying being led astray or given poor direction. Over time, it evolved to describe actions or beliefs based on faulty reasoning or misinformation.
His misguided attempt to fix the machine only made the problem worse.
The politician’s misguided policies led to widespread criticism.
She acted out of misguided loyalty to her friend.
The team’s misguided strategy cost them the game.
Despite his misguided intentions, he genuinely wanted to help.