What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mistakenly
Example
I mistakenly thought today was Friday instead of Thursday. [mistakenly: adverb]
Example
She was mistakenly identified as the suspect in the robbery. [mistakenly: adverb]
incorrectly
Example
The answer given by the student was incorrectly marked as incorrect. [incorrectly: adverb]
Example
He incorrectly assumed that the meeting was at 2 pm instead of 3 pm. [incorrectly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Incorrectly is more commonly used than mistakenly in everyday language. Incorrectly is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while mistakenly is less common and more specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mistakenly and incorrectly?
Both mistakenly and incorrectly are considered formal words and are appropriate for use in both formal and informal contexts.
