misconception

[ mis-kuhn-sep-shuhn ]

noun

1. an erroneous conception; mistaken notion.

misconception

/ ˌmɪskənˈsɛpʃən /

noun

1. a false or mistaken view, opinion, or attitude

Word History and Origins

Origin of misconception¹

First recorded in 1655–65; mis- ¹ + conception

Example Sentences

According to a new study, there are a number of similar misconceptions about how certain consumer behaviors, like using plastic bags, actually affect the environment.

From Popular-Science

At the same time, there’s a common misconception that financial literacy is only for kids.

From Fortune

The two also discussed the malicious intent that SEOs project onto Google and its employees, common misconceptions, why the response to questions is so often “it depends,” and the SEO rumors that Splitt wishes were true.

From Search Engine Land

Like most misconceptions that stick around, there’s a little truth to it.

From Quartz

The story is complex and it’s important to highlight where China is making promising advances in useful AI applications and to challenge common misconceptions, as well as to caution against problematic uses.

From Singularity Hub 

Saying climate change is a matter of belief perpetuates the dangerous misconception that there are multiple valid opinions.

From The Daily Beast

I think a misconception everybody has is that I had an ulterior motive.

From The Daily Beast

“I think people have the misconception that restaurants are rolling in it,” Pemoulie says.

From The Daily Beast

If The Biggest Loser could correct this misconception, it would do a lot to reduce anti-obesity prejudice.

From The Daily Beast

But in most emergencies, anyone taking a closer look would find that misconception countered by the reality of African leadership.

From The Daily Beast

A religion built upon the doctrine of Free Will and human responsibility to God is built upon a misconception and must fall.

From Project Gutenberg

This is their great mistake, and arises from a misconception of the character and ways of Deity.

From Project Gutenberg

On this subject much difference of opinion and misconception prevail.

From Project Gutenberg

He was even ready to swallow such an affront as that, thinking it might be offered him under a misconception of his meaning.

From Project Gutenberg

To talk, therefore, about forging the iron while it was hot proved a misconception of the actual state of matters.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• delusion
• fallacy
• misinterpretation
• misunderstanding