misinterpret
verbUK /ˌmɪsɪnˈtɜːprɪt/
US /ˌmɪsɪnˈtɜːrprɪt/
To understand something in the wrong way.
She misinterpreted his silence as anger, but he was just tired.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. To translate words or text incorrectly from one language to another.
The guide misinterpreted the old inscription, giving it the opposite meaning.
3. To explain or perform a piece of music, drama, or text in a way that misses the creator's intent.
Critics said the director misinterpreted the play's central message.
4. To read a signal, gesture, or sign as meaning something other than what was intended.
The driver misinterpreted the flashing lights and turned the wrong way.