Definition

An action or judgment that is misguided or incorrect, typically unintentional; an error in execution, understanding, or decision-making.

Example Usage

Hiring someone without checking references turned out to be a costly mistake.

Origin

From Old Norse 'mistaka', meaning 'to take in error' or 'to misunderstand'.

Fun Fact

The concept of learning from mistakes is central to modern pedagogical theory, popularized by figures like Carol Dweck's growth mindset research.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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See “mistake” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.

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