French word

incompréhension

Pronunciation

IPA/ɛ̃kɔ̃pʁeɑ̃sjɔ̃/

Meaning

  • feminine nounmisunderstanding

Example

Je suis désolé pour cette incompréhension.

I am sorry about this misunderstanding.

Illustration for incompréhension (misunderstanding)

More examples

Son ton a provoqué une incompréhension.

His tone caused a misunderstanding.

Core concept

A message arrives intact, but its intended meaning does not reach the other person.

Common phrases

  • incompréhension entre collègues

    misunderstanding between colleagues

  • une incompréhension passagère

    a temporary misunderstanding

  • résoudre une incompréhension

    resolve a misunderstanding

Similar words

malentendu: A misunderstanding caused by misreading words or expressions.
méprise: A mistaken interpretation of another person's intentions or position.
quiproquo: A mix-up involving people or situations that makes the conversation go awry.
mésentente: A state of discord in which differing opinions or feelings hinder mutual understanding.

Definition in French

État d'incompréhension entre personnes lorsqu'un message n'est pas saisi comme prévu, entraînant des malentendus.

Word origin

The negative prefix in- is attached to compréhension, a French noun inherited through Old French from Latin comprehensio, marking the absence of successful understanding.

Usage tips

  • The phrase il y a eu une incompréhension presents the problem as a shared communication issue and is often softer than blaming a person.

Other meanings

  • incomprehensionnoun

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word