Misinstructions

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Instructions that have been given incorrectly or conveyed in a misleading manner
2. directives that lead to confusion due to errors in communication
3. guidance that deviates from accuracy, resulting in erroneous actions or outcomes

Etymology: "Misinstructions" is simply the plural of "misinstruction," a noun meaning wrong or confusing orders. The word is built from the prefix "mis-," which adds the sense of "wrongly" or "badly," attached to "instruction," the act of teaching or directing, or the directions given. Each part keeps its ordinary English meaning, so the compound needs no special history to explain it. The plural form simply counts separate instances of such faulty directions, as in a set of contradictory memos or several garbled commands passed along a chain of command. Because "mis-" can join almost any noun or verb, English speakers coin words like this freely when a more precise term is needed.

Synonyms: misdirections, misguidances, errors, mistakes, confusions

Antonyms: instructions, guidances, directions, orders, clarifications