C1adjective2K

Misleading

UK /["/ˌmɪsˈliːdɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˌmɪsˈliːdɪŋ/"]/

Definition

giving the wrong idea or impression and making you believe something that is not true

In simple words: causing someone to believe something that is not true

Examples

  • **misleading information/advertisements**
  • It would be seriously misleading to suggest that television has no effect on children.
  • Some of the information on the website was dangerously misleading.
  • The brochure was extremely misleading about the cost of the holiday.
  • They face prosecution if they provide false or misleading information.

Usage notes

Use 'misleading' when describing information or visuals that can confuse or deceive. Avoid in formal writing about scientific or highly technical topics where precision is crucial.

Grammar pattern

misleading + object

Memory hint

Think of 'miss' leading you in the wrong direction.

Collocations

  • be
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • about

Synonyms

  • deceptive
  • confusing
  • misguiding
  • false
  • dishonest

Antonyms

  • clear
  • truthful
  • straightforward

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'misleading' with 'misunderstood'
  • Using 'misleading' without an object (e.g., 'This is misleading' should specify what)
  • Overusing 'misleading' when 'unclear' may be more accurate