Misconception
/ˌmɪskənˈsɛpʃən/
Definitions
An incorrect understanding or belief about something.
/ˌmɪskənˈsɛpʃən/
A mistaken idea or view resulting from a misunderstanding of something.
Many people have the misconception that all snakes are dangerous.
💡 Simply: Imagine you think all cats are fluffy and friendly, but then you meet one that hisses and scratches. That's a misconception about cats! It's like having a wrong idea in your head.
👶 For kids: A wrong idea about something.
More Examples
It's a misconception that all successful people were born with an advantage.
The film aimed to correct the misconception of the historical figure.
How It's Used
"There's a common misconception that eating chocolate causes acne."
"A major misconception in physics is that heavier objects always fall faster."
"The book aimed to dispel many common misconceptions about different cultures."
From Middle English *misconceiven*, meaning "to misunderstand," formed from *mis-* (wrongly) + *conception* (understanding).
The word 'misconception' has been used in English since the 17th century, initially referring to a mistaken interpretation or understanding.
Memory tip
Think of a 'missed conception' – an idea that didn't quite form correctly.
Word Origin
"to take, seize, grasp"