misdirection (B2)

noun

Pronunciation: /ˌmɪs.dɪˈrek.ʃən/

Definition

The act of causing someone to misunderstand or to focus on the wrong thing, often to conceal a true intention or action.

Examples

• The con artist used misdirection to steal the man's wallet.

• The politician's speech was full of misdirection, avoiding any real answers.

• In magic tricks, misdirection is key to fooling the audience.

How to Use misdirection

misdirection of (prepositional phrase)

To direct attention away from something or someone. — "The investigation focused on the misdirection of funds."

through misdirection (prepositional phrase)

Achieved by means of causing misunderstanding or distraction. — "He escaped the guards through misdirection."

Synonyms of misdirection

Words with a similar meaning to misdirection:

• deception
• trickery
• artifice
• subterfuge

Antonyms of misdirection

Words with the opposite meaning to misdirection:

• honesty
• candor
• transparency

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