misplaced

Misplaced is an adjective that describes something not in its correct position or not appropriate for its context. Physically, an object can be misplaced if it has not been placed where it should be, leading to temporary loss or confusion. Metaphorically, misplaced is used to describe beliefs, emotions, or actions directed toward the wrong target or out of proper context, such as misplaced trust, misplaced blame, misplaced priorities, or misplaced anger. The phrase to misplace something refers to the act of losing track of its location or setting it somewhere inappropriate.

Etymology: The word is formed by the prefix mis- meaning wrong, combined with placed, the past participle of place. Place itself comes from Old French placer, from Latin placēre meaning to please or to place.

Usage: Common expressions include misplacing items like keys or a wallet, or describing abstract failures with phrases like misplaced confidence, misplaced faith, or misplaced priorities. In formal writing, the term signals an error of allocation, timing, or judgment. The concept is widely understood in everyday speech and appears in journalism, literature, and discussions of logic and planning.

See also: misplacement, out of place, misplaced blame, misplaced trust.