Misdirected - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Misdirected means something is sent, guided, or used incorrectly or toward the wrong target. It can refer to actions, efforts, or emotions that are not properly aimed or applied.
Definition:
Sent or aimed in the wrong direction, or used incorrectly.
Synonyms:
misguided, misled, erroneous, off-course
Part of Speech:
adjective, verb (past tense)
Antonyms:
accurate, correct, on-target
Common Collocations:
misdirected anger, misdirected mail, misdirected effort
Derivatives:
misdirection, misdirecting
Usage Tips:
Use "misdirected" to describe actions or objects that have gone astray or been wrongly guided.
Common Phrases:
misdirected energy, a case of misdirected priorities
Etymology:
From "mis-" (wrongly) + "directed," originating from Latin *dirigere* (to guide).
Examples:
- 1. The email was misdirected to the wrong department.
- 2. Her frustration was often misdirected at her coworkers.
- 3. The package was delayed due to a misdirected label.
- 4. His kindness was sometimes misdirected toward dishonest people.