Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

get-the-wrong-end-of-the-stick

idiom

/ɡɛt ðə rɔŋ ɛnd əv ðə stɪk/

Definition

To misunderstand a situation or to have a mistaken interpretation of something.

Examples

When she thought I was angry with her, she really got the wrong end of the stick.
It seems like you got the wrong end of the stick about the meeting; it’s actually scheduled for next week.
If you believe that I said we should cancel the event, you’ve got the wrong end of the stick.

Meaning

This phrase is often used when someone misinterprets the facts or gets confused about what is really going on. It emphasizes the idea of a misunderstanding that can lead to incorrect conclusions or actions.