misspeak
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //mɪsˈspiːk//
KK: /mɪsˈpik/
intransitive verb
Definition
To speak in a way that is incorrect or not intended, often by making a mistake in words or phrasing.
Example
During the meeting, she misspoke about the project's deadline.
Tense Forms
Past: misspoke
Past Participle: misspoken
Conversation
I always seem to misspeak during presentations.
It happens to the best of us, don't worry!
Yeah, but it makes me feel so embarrassed afterwards.
Just practice more and you'll get the hang of it!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
blunder
err
misstate
Antonyms
clarify
articulate
express
transitive verb
Definition
To say something incorrectly or to make a mistake while speaking.
Example
During the interview, she misspoke and said the wrong date.
Tense Forms
Past: misspoke
Past Participle: misspoken
Conversation
Did you hear when the speaker misspoke during the presentation?
Yeah, it was kind of funny but also a bit awkward.
I can't believe he misspoke about the main topic like that.
Root Explanation
Misspeak → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrongly) and "speak" (from Old English "specan", meaning to utter or say). The word "misspeak" means to speak wrongly or to say something incorrectly.
Memory Tip
Think of saying something 'wrongly' ('mis-') when you 'utter' something ('speak'). This helps you remember that misspeak means to say something incorrectly.
Visually Confused Words
inspeak