malinterpretar
“malinterpretar” means “to misinterpret” in Spanish (to take a word or action in a way that wasn't intended).
to misinterpret
Also: to misunderstand
📝 In Action
Por favor, no malinterpretes mis palabras.
A2Please, don't misinterpret my words.
Creo que malinterpretaste lo que quise decir ayer.
B1I think you misunderstood what I wanted to say yesterday.
Es muy fácil malinterpretar un mensaje de texto.
B1It is very easy to misinterpret a text message.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: malinterpretar
Question 1 of 3
What is the best way to say 'Don't get me wrong' in Spanish?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Spanish prefix 'mal-' (bad) and the verb 'interpretar', which comes from Latin 'interpretari' meaning to explain or understand.
First recorded: 18th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between malentender and malinterpretar?
Malentender is usually about a literal failure to understand (like not hearing someone correctly), while malinterpretar is about giving a wrong meaning to an action or intention.
Is 'malinterpretar' used in Spain or Latin America?
It is used and understood perfectly in all Spanish-speaking countries.
Is it a formal word?
It's quite neutral. You can use it with friends, but it's also perfectly fine to use in a business email or a book.