Definition
To misunderstand or mix up information, often due to confusion or distraction.
Origin / Etymology
The phrase likely originated from the literal meaning of wires being crossed in telecommunications, which would cause a mix-up in the transmission of information. It was first used in this figurative sense in the 1930s.
Correct Usage Examples
- I'm sorry, I must have gotten my wires crossed, I meant to invite you to the meeting, not John.
- The email was sent to the wrong address because the sender got their wires crossed.
- We got our wires crossed and booked the wrong flight, which is why we're in the wrong city.
Common Misspellings
Get your wires krossed, Get your wires croseed, Get your wires cross, Get your wires crosed
Related Phrases
FAQ
What does 'get your wires crossed' mean?
It means to misunderstand or mix up information, often due to confusion or distraction.
Where does the phrase 'get your wires crossed' come from?
The phrase likely originated from the literal meaning of wires being crossed in telecommunications, which would cause a mix-up in the transmission of information. It was first used in this figurative sense in the 1930s.
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