What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mishandle
Example
The employee mishandled the fragile package and it broke. [mishandled: past tense verb]
Example
The company's mishandling of the crisis led to a loss of trust from its customers. [mishandling: gerund or present participle]
mismanage
Example
The manager mismanaged the team and missed the deadline. [mismanaged: past tense verb]
Example
The company's mismanagement of funds led to bankruptcy. [mismanagement: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mismanage is more commonly used than mishandle in everyday language. Mismanage is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while mishandle is less common and is typically used in the context of physical objects or situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mishandle and mismanage?
Both mishandle and mismanage are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
