What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
misconstruct
Example
The architect misconstructed the building's foundation, causing it to collapse. [misconstruct: verb]
Example
I'm afraid you misconstructed my meaning. I meant the opposite of what you thought. [misconstructed: past tense]
misconstrue
Example
Please don't misconstrue my words as criticism. I'm just trying to help. [misconstrue: verb]
Example
The media often misconstrues the facts to create sensational headlines. [misconstrues: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Misconstrue is more commonly used than misconstruct in everyday language. Misconstrue is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while misconstruct is less common and refers to a specific type of misunderstanding.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between misconstruct and misconstrue?
Both misconstruct and misconstrue can be used in formal or informal contexts, but misconstrue may have a more negative connotation and be less appropriate for formal situations.
