Irrweg

Irrweg is a German noun that denotes a course, decision, or line of thinking that is mistaken, misleading, or deviant from what is regarded as correct or desirable. The word combines irr, meaning error or confusion, with Weg, meaning path or way, and it is usually used in a metaphorical sense as well as in literal descriptions of a misguided route.

In everyday language, phrases such as auf dem Irrweg sein (to be on the wrong track) or den Irrweg beschreiten (to pursue a mistaken path) express disapproval of a choice, belief, or policy. The term carries a moral or evaluative tone and can be intensified by context, speaker, and audience.

Irrweg appears across various domains. In philosophy and theology it can label doctrinal or methodological misdirections; in political or public discourse it is used to criticize policies or ideological directions deemed harmful or erroneous; and in science or scholarly debate it may describe a faulty approach to research or argumentation. As a rhetorical device, it signals a warning against following a course that is considered misguided.

Because it signals strong judgment, the use of Irrweg is typically careful and context-dependent. It is often contrasted with more neutral formulations referring to a different or less effective path. Related concepts include Irrtum (error) and other terms for deviation from a correct course.