mismated
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈmɪsˌmeɪtɪd/
KK: /ˈmɪsˌmeɪtɪd/
adjective
Definition
Having been paired with an unsuitable partner or mate.
Example
The mismated couple struggled to find common ground in their relationship.
Conversation
Did you hear about Lisa's new boyfriend?
Yeah, I heard he seems a bit mismated for her.
Right? They have such different interests and lifestyles.
Exactly! It’s surprising they even got together in the first place.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
ill-suited
incompatible
unmatched
Antonyms
compatible
suitable
fitting
verb
Definition
To have been paired incorrectly or unsuitably, often used in the context of animals or plants that are not matched properly for breeding.
Example
The mismated pair of birds did not produce any offspring.
Tense Forms
Past: mismated
Past Participle: mismated
Conversation
Did you hear about the dog show last weekend?
Yeah, I heard some dogs got mismated during the competition.
That's surprising! I thought they were all carefully paired.
Root Explanation
Mismated → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrong or badly) and "mate" (from Old English "gemetta", meaning to meet or to pair). The word "mismated" means paired or matched incorrectly or badly.
Memory Tip
Think of 'wrong' ('mis-') and 'pairing' ('mate') to remember that mismated refers to a bad or incorrect pairing.
Visually Confused Words
misted
misattend
mistend
misrate
misdate