misstep
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈmɪsˌstɛp/
KK: /ˈmɪsˌstɛp/
intransitive verb
Definition
To make a mistake or error in judgment or action.
Example
He misstepped during the presentation and forgot his main points.
Tense Forms
Past: misstepped
Past Participle: misstepped
Conversation
I can't believe I made such a big misstep in my presentation yesterday.
It's okay, everyone makes mistakes sometimes.
True, but I felt so embarrassed about it.
Don't worry, you'll do better next time!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
blunder
err
falter
Antonyms
succeed
correct
thrive
noun
Definition
A mistake or error in judgment or action, often resulting in a blunder or awkward situation.
Example
He realized his misstep during the presentation when he misquoted the data.
Conversation
I can’t believe I made such a big misstep during the presentation yesterday.
Yeah, I noticed you seemed a bit off at one point.
It was embarrassing, and I really thought I had prepared well.
Root Explanation
Misstep → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrong or badly) and "step" (from Old English "stæpe", meaning a movement or pace). The word "misstep" refers to a wrong or bad step, indicating a mistake in movement or action.
Memory Tip
Think of taking a 'wrong' step ('mis-') — that's why a misstep means making a mistake in your movement.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.