Misplayed

To misplay something means to handle or execute it poorly, typically in a game or sport. It signifies a mistake, error, or blunder that leads to an unfavorable outcome. This can manifest in various ways, from dropping a ball to making a strategic error in a complex game. The term implies a lack of skill, judgment, or focus, resulting in a failure to achieve the desired result. Often, a misplayed action is immediately visible and leads to negative consequences, such as losing a point, giving up a turn, or weakening a position. The severity of a misplay can range widely depending on the context, from minor inconveniences to game-altering mistakes. It encompasses any instance where an intended action is executed wrongly, causing harm to one's standing in the game or contest.

Misplayed meaning with examples

• The shortstop misplayed the ground ball, letting it roll right through his legs, allowing the runner to reach second base. The crowd groaned, recognizing the crucial error. The team's momentum shifted dramatically, as a potential out turned into a scoring opportunity for their rivals, changing the game's complexion. The game then got a rally that gave them the edge and ultimately lead to a loss.
• In the tense chess match, the grandmaster misplayed his pawn advance. This one error conceded a strategic advantage to his opponent. He then lost valuable position as a result of the error, setting up a painful checkmate situation. He realized his miscalculation instantly. The consequences resulted in a defeat in the final round, leading to a lost tournament prize, despite his earlier triumphs.
• The quarterback, under pressure, misplayed the snap, fumbling the ball. This fumble was recovered by the opposing team. This gave them possession deep in their territory. The team's attempt to win seemed to disappear. It eventually resulted in a touchdown for the opposing team, resulting in the team losing the game by a small margin.
• During the complex card game, she misplayed her hand, choosing the wrong card during the crucial moment. She later learned that a better card choice could have set her up for victory. This led to her opponent gaining control of the round. The choice cost her the advantage and resulted in a loss in the final stages of the match, where she was one card away from winning.