Verwechslung

Verwechslung is a German noun meaning the act or result of confusing one thing with another, leading to mistaken identity, mixed labels, or inaccurate information. It covers everyday mix-ups as well as formal situations such as misidentification or brand confusion.

Etymology: The word stems from the verb verwechseln (to confuse or to mix up), formed with the prefix ver- and wechseln (to change, to exchange). The noun Verwechslung is attested in Middle High German as verwechselunge and has since developed to its modern senses of confusion and mistaken identity.

Usage and contexts: In daily language people speak of Verwechslung of names (eine Verwechslung der Namen) or a labeling error. In trademark law, Verwechslungsgefahr denotes the risk that two signs might be mistaken for each other and thus infringe rights. In literature and film, Verwechslung is a common plot device, particularly in the Verwechslungskomödie (comedy of errors). Wortverwechslung refers to slips of the tongue or confusion between similar-sounding words. In medicine, law, or administration, mistaken identity or mislabeling is a practical form of Verwechslung with consequences for treatment or decision-making.

See also: Wortverwechslung; Verwechslungsgefahr; Verwechslungskomödie.