misstep

/ˌmɪsˈstep/ (bre, ipa) · [mɪsstˈɛp] /ˌmɪsˈstep/ (ame, ipa) · [mɪsstˈɛp] /ˌmis-ˈstep How to pronounce misstep (audio)/ (ame, mw)

misstep — noun

  • misstepsingular
  • misstepsplural

1. an action or decision that proves wrong and causes trouble, criticism, or embarr

1.名詞C1
釋義

an action or decision that proves wrong and causes trouble, criticism, or embarrassment

例句

Publishing the memo early was a misstep that angered the whole team.

be a misstep that + consequence

The mayor admitted the tax plan was a misstep after weeks of protests.

admit that something was a misstep

同義詞
  • mistake

    the broad everyday word for doing something wrong

  • blunder

    suggests a more obvious or damaging error

  • gaffe

    usually means a public or social mistake that embarrasses someone

文法句型

make a misstep

a misstep that causes trouble

admit that something was a misstep

用法筆記

Common in reports about politics, business, and relationships when one move in a larger situation creates avoidable trouble. It is more formal than mistake and often sounds more public or consequential.

2. a moment when you place your foot wrongly and almost fall or hurt yourself

2.名詞C1
釋義

a moment when you place your foot wrongly and almost fall or hurt yourself

例句

Hugo made a misstep on the wet stairs and grabbed the rail.

make a misstep on + surface

A misstep on the rocks sent Paloma's backpack sliding into the stream.

misstep on uneven ground

同義詞
  • slip

    often suggests losing balance on a smooth or wet surface

  • stumble

    usually involves losing balance for a moment while moving

  • false step

    is a more formal phrase for putting the foot in the wrong place

文法句型

make a misstep on the stairs

take one misstep

after a misstep

用法筆記

Usually refers to one physical movement that briefly throws someone off balance. Unlike sense 1, this sense is about where the foot lands, not about a bad decision.