Definition
blunder - a careless or foolish mistake
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
noun
Synonyms
error, mistake, gaffe, slip-up, faux pas, misstep
Antonyms
accuracy, precision, success, achievement, accomplishment
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | blunders, blunderers, blunderer, blunder |
| Verb | blunders, blundering, blundered, blunder |
| Adjective | None |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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The politician’s blunder during the speech cost him the support and trust of his constituents.
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I made a major blunder by assuming that the project deadline had been extended, resulting in significant delays.
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The goalkeeper’s blunder allowed the opposing team to score an easy goal, leading to their defeat.
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She realized her blunder after sending the email with confidential information to the wrong recipient, causing a security breach.
Usage
The word “blunder” has a long history and is commonly used in contemporary English. Its origin can be traced back to the Middle English word “blondren” or “blundren,” which meant to make a loud noise or move clumsily. Over time, its meaning evolved to describe a careless or foolish mistake.
The word “blunder” is primarily used as a noun to refer to an act of making an avoidable error. It often implies a lack of careful thought, leading to negative consequences or embarrassment. For example, one might say, “I made a blunder by forgetting to bring the important documents to the meeting.” In this context, “blunder” conveys a sense of regret and acknowledging a mistake.
The usage of “blunder” can also extend beyond personal mistakes to encompass larger-scale errors. For instance, it is not uncommon to hear about political blunders, financial blunders, or strategic blunders in military operations. These examples highlight the broader application of the term in describing significant missteps or miscalculations that result in negative outcomes.
In terms of word structure, “blunder” does not have any distinct prefixes or suffixes. Its simplicity and straightforwardness make it easily recognizable and universally understood. The root of the word “blunder” remains unchanged, conveying a sense of clumsiness or lack of precision that characterizes the act of making a blunder.
Overall, “blunder” is a versatile and widely used word that captures the essence of careless mistakes and serves as a reminder of the need for attention and caution in various aspects of life. Whether it is an individual slip-up or a larger-scale blunder, the word effectively conveys the gravity of the error and its potential consequences.