WordGarden.iomistaken
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /mɪstˈeɪkən/
US
- /mɪˈsteɪkən/
Meanings
Adjective
wrong in one's belief, judgment, or understanding
Beyond the definition
To be mistaken means to be wrong about something because you believed something that was not true. It is softer than saying someone lied; it suggests an honest error. You might be mistaken about the time, or about what another person's actions mean. A detective might be mistaken about who committed a crime, which leads them down the wrong path. Sometimes it is harmless, like thinking you see a friend across the street and then realizing it is someone else. Other times, it can have serious consequences.
The word "mistaken" describes someone who is incorrect in what they believe or understand. It implies an error in judgment or perception, and it is usually unintentional. Unlike simply being wrong, "mistaken" often suggests sincere belief: you truly thought something was true, even though it was not.
Think about a traveler who is mistaken about the directions to a landmark; they sincerely believed they were heading the right way, but ended up lost. Or consider a friend who is mistaken in thinking you dislike their new haircut. They meant well and honestly read your reaction the wrong way.
"Mistaken identity" is a common idea in stories: someone is wrongly identified as another person, which leads to confusion or even danger. You can be mistaken ("I was mistaken about the meeting time"), make a mistake (the action), or describe something as mistaken ("a mistaken assumption").
The context often matters. Saying someone is "mistaken" is generally more polite than saying they are "wrong," especially in sensitive situations. It acknowledges that they were acting in good faith while gently correcting the error. So, if you find yourself believing something that turns out to be untrue, do not worry; everyone is mistaken sometimes. It is part of learning and growing.
Examples
- 1
Wrong assumption
I thought the meeting was today, but I was mistaken.
- 2
Correcting someone
You must be mistaken; I never said I would lend him my car.
- 3
Price error
She was mistaken about the price and brought too little cash.
- 4
Wrong identity
In the dark, he was mistaken for a security guard.
- Patternmistaken for + person/thing
wrongly thought to be that person or thing
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Polite uncertainty
If I'm not mistaken, this train stops at York.
- Phraseif I'm not mistaken
I think this is correct, but I'm not completely sure
- 6
Wrong belief
The decision was based on the mistaken belief that sales were rising.
- Phrasemistaken belief
a belief that is wrong
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- mistaken belief
- mistaken identity
- you are mistaken
- sadly mistaken
Word family
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- mistakenadjectiveverb