misinterpret
UK: ˌmɪsɪnˈtɜːprɪt | US: ˌmɪsɪnˈtɜːrprɪt
vt. to understand or explain something incorrectly
vt. to translate or express something in a wrong way
The word "misinterpret" combines the prefix "mis-" (from Old English mis-, meaning "wrong" or "badly") with the verb "interpret" (from Latin interpretari, meaning "to explain" or "translate"). The prefix "mis-" negates or reverses the action of the root, turning "explain correctly" into "explain incorrectly." This structure reflects a common pattern in English where "mis-" modifies verbs to indicate error or failure (e.g., "mislead," "misunderstand").
The journalist misinterprets the politician's statement, causing public confusion.
Ancient texts are often misinterpreted due to language barriers.
Don’t misinterpret her silence as disapproval—she’s just shy.
The software misinterprets the user’s input and produces errors.
His sarcasm was misinterpreted as genuine praise.