Another Word for Wrong: 17 Synonyms with Examples
“Wrong” can mean incorrect, morally bad or unsuitable. A more exact word shows which kind of wrong you mean.
As an adjective: not correct
- incorrect
- inaccurate
- mistaken
- false
- erroneous
- untrue
- faulty
As an adjective: morally bad
- unfair
- unjust
- immoral
- unethical
- dishonest
- wicked
As an adjective: not suitable
- unsuitable
- inappropriate
- improper
- unfitting
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How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- incorrect
- Neutral and formal; good for factual errors.
- mistaken
- Used of people or beliefs: “you are mistaken”. Softer than “wrong”.
- erroneous
- Very formal; for claims, records or data.
- unethical
- Wrong according to professional or moral standards.
- inappropriate
- Unsuitable for the situation, often socially.
Example sentences
- incorrect: The address on the form was incorrect.
- mistaken: I was mistaken about the start time.
- erroneous: The report contained erroneous figures.
- unethical: Selling customer data without consent is unethical.
- inappropriate: Jeans are inappropriate for the ceremony.
Opposite of wrong
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “wrong”. Check the meaning before you use one.
adjective: amiss, awry, haywire
noun: wrongfulness, damage
adverb: incorrectly, wrongly
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “wrong”?
The most useful alternatives are “incorrect”, “inaccurate”, “mistaken”, “false”, “erroneous”. For the main sense (not correct), “incorrect” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “incorrect” and “mistaken”?
incorrect: Neutral and formal; good for factual errors. mistaken: Used of people or beliefs: “you are mistaken”. Softer than “wrong”.
What is the opposite of “wrong”?
Common antonyms are “right”, “correct”, “accurate”, “fair”.