misconstruction

[/ˌmɪskənˈstrʌkʃən/]
nounpl: misconstructions
má interpretação
1. An incorrect or mistaken interpretation or understanding of something, such as words, actions, or intentions
His comment was subject to misconstruction by those unfamiliar with the context.
Seu comentário estava sujeito a má interpretação por aqueles desconhecedores do contexto.
2. The act of constructing or assembling something incorrectly or improperly
The building's misconstruction led to structural problems.
A construção inadequada do edifício levou a problemas estruturais.
3. A misunderstanding or wrong conclusion about someone's meaning or purpose
There was a misconstruction of the law's intent among the public.
Houve uma má interpretação da intenção da lei entre o público.
In both American and Brazilian contexts, this term is commonly used in legal, academic, and professional settings where clarity and precision of communication are critical. In Brazil, it's particularly relevant in bureaucratic and formal contexts where written communication can easily lead to misunderstandings. The term emphasizes the importance of clear communication in avoiding conflicts and misunderstandings.
NYC Slang
misread; getting it twisted
Synonyms / Sinônimos
misinterpretationmisunderstandingmistranslationmisreadingwrong interpretation
Antonyms / Antônimos
correct interpretationaccurate understandingproper construction

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
má interpretação
Most common usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
má leitura
Alternative colloquial term emphasizing wrong reading
São Paulo
interpretação errada
More direct, straightforward phrasing
Portugal
má interpretação
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; occasionally 'deturpação' for more serious misinterpretations

Related Words

construemisinterpretmisconstrueinterpretationconstruct

Related Idioms & Phrases

open to misconstruction
subject to misconstruction
prone to misconstruction
liable to be misconstrued
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