MISGIVING Meaning and
Definition
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Misgiving is a noun that refers to a feeling of doubt, apprehension, or unease about something, typically relating to an action, decision, or outcome. It implies a sense of uncertainty or skepticism, often stemming from a lack of confidence or trust in a particular course of action or in one's own abilities.
When one experiences misgivings, they feel hesitant or unsure about the potential consequences of a specific situation or choice. These feelings are often accompanied by a sense of caution or suspicion, as misgivings can originate from a rational evaluation of potential risks or past negative experiences. Misgivings can also arise from intuitions or gut feelings that something may not be quite right.
The term can apply to various aspects of life, such as personal relationships, professional decisions, or larger societal concerns. It embodies the idea of internal conflict, where one's mind is divided between opposing feelings or doubts. Misgivings can hold individuals back, preventing them from fully committing to an action or causing them to approach a situation with caution and reservation.
In summary, misgiving encompasses a range of negative feelings, including doubt, apprehension, and uncertainty, which arise when there is skepticism or unease about a particular action, decision, or outcome. As a term often used in relation to one's own subjective evaluation, it highlights the internal struggle between confidence and doubt, ultimately shaping a person's approach to various situations.
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A failing of confidence; doubt; mistrust.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MISGIVING
Etymology of MISGIVING
The word "misgiving" is derived from the Middle English term "misgyving", which can be further traced back to the Old English words "mis" meaning "wrong" or "bad" and "giefan" meaning "give" or "grant". Over time, "misgyving" evolved to "misgiving" by the 16th century, where the prefix "mis-" signifies a sense of doubt, suspicion, or apprehension. So, the word "misgiving" essentially carries the meaning of a feeling or sense of mistrust, doubt, or anxiety about something.
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