What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
miscomprehend
Example
I miscomprehended the instructions and ended up doing the wrong thing. [miscomprehended: past tense verb]
Example
The complexity of the topic caused me to miscomprehend some of the key points. [miscomprehend: infinitive verb]
misunderstand
Example
I misunderstood what he was trying to say and ended up offending him. [misunderstood: past tense verb]
Example
She often misunderstands my jokes and takes them seriously. [misunderstands: present tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Misunderstand is more commonly used in everyday language than miscomprehend. It is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while miscomprehend is less common and may be perceived as more formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between miscomprehend and misunderstand?
Misunderstand is a more versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while miscomprehend is less common and may be perceived as more formal.
