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méprendre

to be mistaken

verb meh-PRAHN-druh Rare

Usage Note

Méprendre is exclusively used reflexively as se méprendre sur ('to be mistaken about, to misjudge'). It is a literary and formal verb; everyday speech prefers se tromper. The phrase à ne pas s'y méprendre ('unmistakably, there's no mistaking it') is a common fixed expression in writing. The verb is irregular, following the pattern of prendre.

Examples

"Il s'est mépris sur ses intentions."

Natural Translation

He was mistaken about her intentions.

Literal Translation

He mistook himself about her intentions.

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