blunder
What does "blunder" mean?
A blunder is a careless or stupid mistake, often one that causes embarrassment or negative consequences. Think of it as a significant stumble in judgment or action, rather than a tiny slip-up; it implies that you should have known better but failed to pay attention. The word is commonly used in professional or social contexts to describe social gaffes or tactical errors. While "mistake" is neutral, "blunder" carries a weight of foolishness or incompetence. It is frequently paired with verbs like "commit" or "make," as in "committing a tactical blunder."
"blunder" in conversation
Discussing a work meeting
I completely forgot to invite the manager to the presentation.
I completely forgot to invite the manager to the presentation.
That was a major blunder, Sarah. He’s going to be furious.
That was a major blunder, Sarah. He’s going to be furious.
Used here to emphasize the severity of a professional oversight.
Discussing a chess game
I had the game won, but then I moved my Queen into a trap.
I had the game won, but then I moved my Queen into a trap.
That was a rookie blunder. You gave away your best piece!
That was a rookie blunder. You gave away your best piece!
Refers to a specific, avoidable error in a strategic context.
"blunder" in a sentence
He made a silly blunder during the interview.
He made a silly blunder during the interview.
The government committed a strategic blunder by ignoring the public outcry.
The government committed a strategic blunder by ignoring the public outcry.
His career was marred by a series of high-profile diplomatic blunders.
His career was marred by a series of high-profile diplomatic blunders.
