We all make mistakes, but some mistakes are more significant than others. A blunder is one of those significant mistakes that can have a significant impact on our lives. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of blunder, its origin, synonyms, antonyms, and examples of how it is used in sentences.
Definitions
A blunder is a careless or stupid mistake that causes embarrassment, harm, or damage. It can also refer to an error in judgment or a misstep in action. A blunder can be made by an individual, a group, or an organization.
Origin
The word blunder comes from the Middle English word blundre, which means to stumble or trip. The word was first used in the 16th century to describe a clumsy or awkward mistake.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, a blunder is “a stupid or careless mistake.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “a gross error or mistake resulting usually from stupidity, ignorance, or carelessness.” The Cambridge Dictionary describes it as “a serious mistake, usually caused by not taking care or thinking.”
Associations
Blunders are often associated with negative consequences, such as embarrassment, loss of reputation, financial loss, or harm to oneself or others. They can also be associated with a lack of attention to detail, poor judgment, or a failure to learn from past mistakes.
Synonyms
Synonyms of blunder include mistake, error, gaffe, slip-up, faux pas, blooper, flub, and blunderbuss.
Antonyms
Antonyms of blunder include success, achievement, accomplishment, and triumph.
The same root words
Words with the same root as blunder include blunderbuss, which is a type of firearm known for its inaccuracy, and blundering, which refers to the act of making blunders.
Example Sentences
- She made a blunder by sending the wrong email to the client.
- The company’s blunder cost them millions of dollars in lost revenue.
- His blunder on the soccer field cost his team the game.
- The politician’s blunder during the debate cost him the election.
- The chef’s blunder in the kitchen ruined the entire meal.