What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mispointing
Example
He mispointed the flashlight and couldn't see the path ahead. [mispointed: past tense verb]
Example
The telescope was mispointing and couldn't focus on the star. [mispointing: present participle]
misalignment
Example
The wheels were out of misalignment and caused the car to shake. [misalignment: noun]
Example
The printer had a misalignment issue and printed the text crooked. [misalignment: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Misalignment is more commonly used than mispointing in technical or mechanical contexts, while mispointing is less common and more likely to be used in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mispointing and misalignment?
Misalignment is generally considered more formal than mispointing, as it is often used in technical or professional settings.
