Misconstrue (verb)

To interpret or understand something in the wrong way, especially as a result of a misinterpretation.

Origin:

From the words mis and construe, meaning to interpret something incorrectly or to misunderstand something.

Examples:

1. She misunderstood his comment and thought he was being sarcastic.
2. He was worried that his words would be misconstrued and cause offense.
3. The statement was misconstrued by the press and caused a public outcry.
4. The meaning of the poem was misconstrued by the critics.
5. I didn"t mean to sound rude, I hope my words aren"t misconstrued.