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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.

misdirected

/ˌmɪsdəˈrɛktɪd/ /ˌmɪsdɪˈrɛktɪd/

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.

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