Definition

A failure to report or prevent a crime, especially treason, or a disregard for official duties.

Example

The official was charged with misprision for failing to report the corruption he witnessed.

Conversation

Did you hear about the case involving that official's misprision?

Yeah, it’s shocking how someone could neglect their duties like that.

It makes you wonder how often misprision happens without anyone noticing.

Right? It's a serious issue that needs more attention from the public.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Misprision is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrong or badly) and "prision" (from Latin "prensio", meaning to seize or take). The word refers to the wrongful or bad understanding or interpretation of something, particularly in a legal context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mis-' meaning wrong and 'prision' relating to taking or seizing — this helps you remember that misprision refers to a wrong understanding or interpretation.

Visually Confused Words