Definition

The act of speaking in a way that is incorrect or misleading, often by making a mistake in words or expressions.

Example

Her misspeaking during the presentation led to confusion among the audience.

Conversation

Did you hear what he said during the meeting yesterday?

Yeah, I think he was just misspeaking a bit.

Right? It was hard to follow his point.

Definitely! I hope he clarifies it later.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Misspeaking → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrongly) and "speak" (from Old English "specan", meaning to utter words). The word "misspeaking" means to speak wrongly or to make a mistake in speaking.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mis-' meaning wrongly and 'speak' meaning to utter words — this helps you remember that misspeaking refers to speaking incorrectly.

Visually Confused Words