Translation guide
A misconception is a belief or idea that is incorrect, often based on faulty understanding or incomplete information. In Japanese, there are several ways to express this, depending on whether you're talking about a general misunderstanding, a widely held false belief, or a personal mistaken notion.
Expressing that someone has a wrong idea or belief about something.
The most common and versatile word for 'misconception' or 'misunderstanding'. It can refer to both personal misunderstandings and widely held misconceptions.
それはよくある誤解です。
That's a common misconception.
彼の説明で誤解が解けた。
His explanation cleared up the misconception.
A mistaken belief or wrong assumption, often personal. Slightly more casual than 誤解.
それは私の思い違いでした。
That was my misconception.
A casual term for a mistaken idea or mix-up. Often used for personal errors in judgment or memory.
日付を勘違いしてた。
I had a misconception about the date.
Referring to a misconception that is common in society or a particular group.
Literally 'mistaken perception'. Used for formal or serious contexts, such as academic or social misconceptions.
この問題については誤った認識が広まっている。
There is a widespread misconception about this issue.
A straightforward phrase meaning 'wrong idea'. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
それは間違った考えです。
That's a misconception.
Specifically refers to superstitions or irrational beliefs, often traditional. Use only when the misconception is superstitious in nature.
When the misconception arises from not knowing the full facts.
Literally 'lack of awareness/understanding'. Often used in business or formal settings to indicate a gap in knowledge leading to misconceptions.
その誤解は認識不足から生じた。
The misconception arose from a lack of understanding.
A more explicit phrase: 'misunderstanding due to not knowing'. Useful for clarification.
それは知らないことによる誤解です。
That's a misconception based on not knowing.
誤解 is the most general and can be used in both formal and casual contexts. 勘違い is casual and often implies a simple mix-up or personal mistake. 思い違い is slightly more formal than 勘違い but still personal. For academic or societal misconceptions, 誤った認識 is preferred.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all nuances of 'misconception'. Using 誤解 is safe for most cases, but be aware that it can also mean 'misunderstanding' in the sense of a communication breakdown. Context will clarify.
日本人は毎日寿司を食べるというのはよくある誤解です。
There's a common misconception that Japanese people eat sushi every day.
彼の意図について誤解していた。
I had a misconception about his intentions.
黒猫が不吉だというのは迷信だ。
It's a misconception that black cats are unlucky.