mishandle

[ˌmɪsˈhændl]

mishandle Definition

• 1. to deal with something in a way that is not careful, skillful, or appropriate
• 2. to treat someone roughly or cruelly

Using mishandle: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "mishandle" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The company mishandled the situation and lost many customers.

• Example

  The police were accused of mishandling the investigation.

• Example

  He was fired for mishandling company funds.

• Example

  The baggage handlers mishandled my luggage and it arrived damaged.

• Example

  The teacher was criticized for mishandling the student's behavior.

mishandle Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for mishandle

• mangle
• mismanage
• botch
• bungle
• misuse

Antonyms for mishandle

• handle well
• manage well

Phrases with mishandle

• mishandle with kid gloves

  to handle something very carefully and gently

  Example

  The antique vase was very fragile, so we had to mishandle it with kid gloves.

• mishandle the ball

  to fail to catch or handle a ball properly

  Example

  The outfielder mishandled the ball and the runner advanced to second base.

• mishandle a crisis

  to deal with a crisis in a way that makes the situation worse

  Example

  The government was criticized for mishandling the economic crisis.

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Summary: mishandle in Brief

To 'mishandle' [ˌmɪsˈhændl] means to deal with something carelessly, improperly, or roughly. It can also mean to treat someone cruelly. Examples include 'The company mishandled the situation and lost many customers,' and 'The baggage handlers mishandled my luggage and it arrived damaged.' Phrases include 'mishandle with kid gloves,' meaning to handle something very carefully, and 'mishandle a crisis,' meaning to make a crisis worse.