misguided notion

USAGE SUMMARY

'misguided notion' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is wrong, or is based off of incorrect information. For example, "John's misguided notion that he could get away with such irresponsible behavior ultimately led to his downfall."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

On the positive side, they can benefit from jurors' misguided notion that science solves crimes, and hence that the absence of crime-solving scientific evidence constitutes a reasonable doubt and grounds for acquittal.

The Economist

But I can't get Brad Gilbert's "Winning Ugly" out of my head — a book devoted to the (perhaps misguided) notion that smart, cagey, well-prepared players can beat guys who are better than they are.

The New Yorker

Still, fundraising continues to be a problem (pdf), largely due to the lack of sympathy for prisoners and the ongoing (and misguided) notion that prisons must be all about punishment.

The Guardian - Opinion

To lean on the Constitution and argue a misguided notion that they are pursuing a higher cause isn't just intellectual dishonesty, it's irresponsible.

TechCrunch

Thanks to that misguided notion, we now have a lot of development behind those sea walls.

The Economist

The misguided notion that time is money actually costs us money.

The New York Times

Referring to Blair, he observes acerbically that "a 'world view' is a dangerous and misguided notion".

The Guardian - Books

In both books, the general populace has only a vague, misguided notion of the magical beasts rampaging through the countryside.

The New York Times - Books

Shudder 1 for the misguided notion that you can keep teachers and parents from talking about something bad that happened.

The New York Times

Is Yuvraj so unpopular with this England side, or were they somehow clinging to some misguided notion of rigid professionalism?

The Guardian - Sport

The misguided notion of "what you measure is what you get" has been the mantra for decades.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "misguided notion", ensure that you clearly articulate why the notion is flawed or incorrect to provide context and strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the consequences of a "misguided notion". While it can be problematic, accurately portray its actual impact rather than creating unnecessary alarm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "misguided notion" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "misguided" modifies the noun "notion". It typically serves to characterize a specific idea or belief as being flawed, incorrect, or based on faulty reasoning. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "misguided notion" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a flawed or incorrect idea. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use and correctness. Its function is to express disagreement or criticism, and while it can be used in various contexts, it's most frequently found in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly articulate the reasons behind the notion's flaws. Alternatives like ""mistaken belief"" or ""erroneous assumption"" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mistaken belief

Emphasizes the incorrectness of the belief itself, rather than the judgment behind it.

incorrect assumption

Emphasizes a deviation from what is factually correct, focusing on the assumption made.

erroneous assumption

Focuses on the incorrect foundation upon which a conclusion is built.

fallacious idea

Highlights the deceptive or misleading nature of the idea.

flawed concept

Suggests that the core structure or design of the concept is deficient.

inaccurate perception

Focuses on a flawed understanding gained through the senses or interpretation.

unfounded assumption

Stresses the lack of evidence or justification for the assumption.

faulty premise

Highlights that the initial statement or idea is incorrect, leading to invalid conclusions.

wrong impression

Focuses more on the subjective misunderstanding or belief formed.

naive understanding

Implies a lack of experience or sophistication in understanding a concept.

FAQs

How can I use "misguided notion" in a sentence?

You can use "misguided notion" to describe a belief or idea that is based on flawed reasoning or incorrect information. For example, "The company's decision was based on the "misguided notion" that cutting costs would automatically increase profits."

What are some alternatives to "misguided notion"?

Some alternatives to "misguided notion" include "mistaken belief", "erroneous assumption", or "fallacious idea". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "misguided notion" or "wrong idea"?

"Misguided notion" and "wrong idea" are similar, but "misguided notion" suggests that there was some reasoning, however flawed, behind the idea. "Wrong idea" is more general and simply indicates that the idea is incorrect.

What's the difference between a "misguided notion" and an "uninformed opinion"?

A "misguided notion" implies a flawed understanding or rationale, while an "uninformed opinion" suggests a lack of knowledge or information. Someone holding a "misguided notion" might have some information but interpret it incorrectly, while someone with an "uninformed opinion" may have little to no relevant information.