A misunderstanding; incorrectly interpreting facts or someone's intention, often causing confusion between people.
彼の言い方が悪くて、誤解を招いてしまった。
His poor wording caused a misunderstanding.
それは誤解だったとすぐに分かった。
I immediately realized it was a misunderstanding.
誤解しないでほしいが、これは冗談ではない。
Don't misunderstand me — this is not a joke.