misbegotten

/'misbi'gɔtn/

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Understanding the Word "Misbegotten"

Definition: The word "misbegotten" is an adjective that generally means "born in an improper or illegitimate way." It often refers to children born out of wedlock, which means their parents were not married when they were born. However, it can also describe things that are poorly planned or perhaps not well thought out.

Usage Instructions:

• "Misbegotten" is used to describe people (especially children) or ideas that are viewed negatively because of their origins.
• It can be used in both serious and informal contexts.

Example Sentence:

• "The orphan was often treated poorly because he was considered misbegotten, having been born to parents who never married."

Advanced Usage:

• In literature or formal writing, "misbegotten" can describe not just people but also projects or plans that are seen as flawed or doomed from the start.
• Example: "The misbegotten project failed to meet its goals due to a lack of planning and poor execution."

Word Variants:

• Misbegottenness (noun): This refers to the state of being misbegotten.
  • Example: "The misbegottenness of his birth did not define his character."

Different Meanings:

1. Illegitimate Birth: When referring to children born out of wedlock.
2. Flawed Ideas/Plans: Refers to things that are poorly conceived or executed.

Synonyms:

• Illegitimate
• Spurious
• Unlawful
• Improper

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While "misbegotten" does not have direct idioms or phrasal verbs associated with it, you can use phrases like: - "Born out of wedlock" (to describe the same concept). - "A bad seed" (can imply the idea of someone who may come from a problematic background).

Summary:

"Misbegotten" is a descriptive word that helps convey a sense of improper origins, whether it's about people or ideas.

Academic

Adjective

1. born out of wedlock
   • the dominions of both rulers passed away to their spurious or doubtful offspring- E.A.Freeman

Synonyms

• bastardly
• misbegot
• spurious