mishandle

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: //ˌmɪsˈhændl//

KK: /ˈmɪshændl/

transitive verb

Definition

To deal with something in a careless or incorrect way, often causing problems or damage.

Example

If you mishandle the fragile package, it might break during shipping.

Tense Forms

Past: mishandled

Past Participle: mishandled

Conversation

Did you hear about the project that went wrong last week?

Yeah, I heard they really mishandle the resources.

It's such a shame because it could have been great.

Right? I hope they learn from it next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

mismanage

mistreat

bungle

Antonyms

handle

manage

treat

Root Explanation

Mishandle → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrongly or badly) and "handle" (from Old English "handlian", meaning to manage or deal with). The word "mishandle" means to manage or deal with something in a wrong or bad way.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mis-' meaning wrongly, and 'handle' meaning to manage. This helps you remember that mishandle means to manage something in a wrong way.

Visually Confused Words