misstep

[mis-step]

noun

1. a wrong step.

2. an error or slip in conduct; faux pas.

   Synonyms: indiscretion, lapse, transgression, fault

misstep

/ ˌmɪsˈstɛp /

noun

1. a false step

2. an error

Word History and Origins

Origin of misstep¹

First recorded in 1250–1300, misstep is from the Middle English word missteppen. See mis- ¹, step

Example Sentences

His own missteps in player evaluation and the missteps of his head of football operations, Paul Tisdale, were not given a full airing, of course.

From BBC

We wait for the missteps that threaten everything, of course, and they begin with learning that Ash is a failed whistleblower himself, one who is beginning to question his chosen crusade.

From Los Angeles Times

To say nothing of Newsom’s ill-fated dinner at an elite Napa restaurant in violation of COVID-19 protocols — a misstep that energized a failed recall attempt and still haunts the governor’s national reputation.

From Los Angeles Times

A series of missteps, grandstanding, geopolitics and domestic political pressure seem to have broken down the negotiations.

From BBC

In a 2023 deposition, Murdoch conceded missteps of spreading the unfounded theories.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• blunder 
• error 
• failure 
• gaffe 
• indiscretion 
• lapse 
• miscue 
• slipup www.thesaurus.com
• stumble