Definition

The act of directing someone or something incorrectly, leading to confusion or mistakes.

Example

The magician's misdirection kept the audience from seeing how the trick was done.

Conversation

I was so confused during the magic show because of the misdirection.

Right? They really know how to distract the audience.

I mean, I thought I was watching one trick, but then something completely different happened!

That’s the art of it — using misdirection to keep us guessing!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Misdirection → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrongly or badly) and "direction" (from Latin "directio" meaning a guiding or leading). The word "misdirection" refers to a wrong or misleading guidance or instruction.

Memory Tip

Think of being guided in the wrong way — 'mis-' means wrongly, and 'direction' refers to guidance.

Visually Confused Words