The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

misleading

IPA

Dictionary definition of misleading

Deceptive or giving a false impression, leading to an inaccurate understanding or perception of a particular situation, statement, or concept.
"The misleading instructions on the packaging led to the incorrect assembly of the furniture."

Detailed meaning of misleading

It is used to describe information, claims, advertisements, or representations that intentionally or unintentionally steer people away from the truth or present a distorted version of reality. When something is described as misleading, it suggests that it can potentially cause confusion, misinterpretation, or erroneous conclusions, often influencing people to make decisions based on incorrect or incomplete information. Therefore, it is important to critically analyze and verify sources of information to identify any misleading aspects and ensure a more accurate understanding of the subject matter.

Example sentences containing misleading

1. The newspaper article contained several misleading statements about the politician's stance on healthcare.
2. The advertisement for the product was misleading, as it exaggerated the benefits and downplayed the potential side effects.
3. The survey results were misleading because they failed to include a representative sample of the population.
4. The company's financial report was deemed misleading, as it obscured certain expenses to present a better financial picture.
5. The headline of the news article was intentionally misleading, sensationalizing the story for increased readership.
6. The politician's campaign speech was filled with misleading statistics and cherry-picked data to support their agenda.

History and etymology of misleading

The adjective 'misleading' traces its origins to the combination of two linguistic elements. The first part, 'mis,' has its roots in Old English, signifying something 'wrong' or 'incorrect.' The second part, 'leading,' is derived from the Old English word 'lǣdan,' meaning 'to guide' or 'to lead.' When joined together, 'misleading' encapsulates the idea of something that guides or leads in a way that is incorrect or deceptive, ultimately giving a false impression or leading to an inaccurate understanding or perception of a situation, statement, or concept. Its etymology vividly conveys the notion of being led astray or in the wrong direction, emphasizing the deceptive nature of the adjective.

Quiz: Find the meaning of misleading

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Further usage examples of misleading

1. The research study's conclusions were based on a small sample size, rendering the results misleading.
2. The company's CEO gave a misleading statement to investors, artificially inflating the value of their stock.
3. The documentary was criticized for presenting a one-sided view, omitting important information and being misleading.
4. The misleading map in the tourist guide led the visitors to the wrong location, causing confusion and frustration.
5. The salesperson used misleading tactics to pressure customers into buying unnecessary products.
6. The misleading advertisement promised unrealistic results.
7. Her misleading smile concealed her true emotions.
8. Misleading statistics can distort public perception.
9. Avoid spreading misleading information online.
10. The headline was intentionally misleading to grab attention.
11. Misleading packaging can trick consumers into buying.
12. Misleading claims can damage a brand's reputation.
13. His misleading comments caused confusion in the meeting.
14. Misleading visuals in movies can alter reality.
15. Be cautious of misleading offers that seem too good.
16. Misleading rumors can spread like wildfire on social media.
17. Misleading statements can erode trust in relationships.
18. The product's misleading label misinformed customers.
19. Misleading headlines can perpetuate fake news.
20. She wore a misleading disguise to the masquerade ball.
21. Misleading advertisements can be manipulative.
22. Misleading explanations can hinder problem-solving.
23. Avoid making misleading assumptions about people.
24. The book's misleading cover didn't reflect its content.
25. Misleading appearances can be deceiving at first glance.