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Definition of misapply

misapply

/ˌmɪs.əˈplaɪ/
mis · ap · ply
Adjective:misapplicable
•
Past Simple:misapplied
•
Past Participle:misapplied
•
Present Participle:misapplying
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misapply Lexical Profile

misapply Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To use or apply (something, such as a rule, theory, or resource) in a wrong, inappropriate, or improper way.

Example

"Critics argued that the court had misapplied the legal precedent to a completely unrelated case."

2

To spend or allocate (funds or property) dishonesty or for an unauthorized purpose.

Example

"The audit revealed that several executives had misapplied charitable donations to cover personal expenses."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for misapply

• Rhymes for misapply

• Nearby Words

misandry
misanthrope
misapplication
misapply
misapprehension
misappropriate
misappropriation

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 16th century from the prefix 'mis-' (wrongly) and the verb 'apply', which derives via Old French from Latin 'applicare' (to attach or join to).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Misapply. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/misapply
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