misconception
What does "misconception" mean?
A misconception is a mistaken belief or a faulty idea that is held despite evidence to the contrary. Think of it as a "mental glitch" where your internal map of how something works doesn't match the actual terrain of reality. It is typically used in formal or academic contexts to correct errors in understanding. You will often hear it paired with verbs like "clear up," "correct," or "dispel," as people work to replace the incorrect information with facts.
"misconception" in conversation
Clearing up a diet myth
I thought eating carbs at night made you gain weight instantly.
I thought eating carbs at night made you gain weight instantly.
That's a common misconception; it's really about your total calorie intake for the day.
That's a common misconception; it's really about your total calorie intake for the day.
Used to debunk a popular but false health belief.
Workplace feedback
There seems to be a misconception regarding the new project deadline.
There seems to be a misconception regarding the new project deadline.
Oh, I apologize! I thought it was due on Friday, not Wednesday.
Oh, I apologize! I thought it was due on Friday, not Wednesday.
Used to address a misunderstanding about scheduling.
"misconception" in a sentence
It is a common misconception that sharks hunt humans.
It is a common misconception that sharks hunt humans.
The documentary aims to dispel the misconception that bats are blind.
The documentary aims to dispel the misconception that bats are blind.
We must address the fundamental misconception inherent in the current economic model to prevent future instability.
We must address the fundamental misconception inherent in the current economic model to prevent future instability.
