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Mistaking Meaning in English

word · lemma: mistake

mɪˈsteɪkɪŋ
mi-STAY-king
mɪstˈeɪkɪŋ
mi-STAY-king

Definition

Believing that something or someone is a different thing or person; making an error in identifying something.

Usage & Nuances

Used as the present participle of 'mistake,' mainly after 'for' (e.g., 'mistaking him for his brother'). Formal or neutral. Common errors: confusing with 'misunderstanding' (which means not grasping meaning). Often used to describe errors in identification.

Example Sentences

I am always mistaking her name for her sister's.

basic

The boy kept mistaking salt for sugar.

basic

She apologized for mistaking the address.

basic

Are you mistaking me for someone else?

natural

People keep mistaking my friendly attitude for flirting.

natural

Don’t worry about mistaking the time; it happens to everyone.

natural