How Do You Spell MISCHIEVE?

Pronunciation: [mˈɪst͡ʃiːv] (IPA)

The word "mischieve" is often misspelled as such, as the correct spelling is actually "mischievous." This word has four syllables: mis-chi-vous, with stress on the second syllable. The "-e" at the end of "mischieve" is frequently added out of habit or mistake, likely due to its similarity to words like "achieve" and "believe." However, "mischievous" does not follow this pattern and should be spelled as such.

MISCHIEVE Meaning and Definition

  1. Mischieve is a verb that is synonymous with the word "mischief," which commonly refers to engaging in playful, reckless, or harmful behavior that often causes annoyance, inconvenience, or trouble for others. It entails participating in activities that are intentionally or unintentionally bothersome, disruptive, or disobedient, often for one's own amusement or entertainment.

    When someone mischieves, they are engaging in acts that can range from harmless pranks and practical jokes to more troublesome behaviors, such as vandalism or causing minor chaos. This term can also encompass actions that may not necessarily be malicious but can still result in negative consequences or inconvenience for others.

    The concept of mischieve is often associated with children or individuals with a mischievous nature who enjoy pushing boundaries or disrupting the norm. It signifies a certain level of light-hearted insubordination or playfulness that can sometimes cross the line into more harmful behavior, depending on the situation.

    Overall, mischieve refers to engaging in actions or behaviors that may cause annoyance, disruption, or trouble for others, often done with a playful or mischievous intent. However, it is important to note that the degree and intention of mischievous acts can vary greatly, as context and individual interpretation play a significant role in determining the impact and severity of such behavior.

Etymology of MISCHIEVE

The word "mischieve" is not a commonly used word in English. However, the word "mischief" derives from the Old French word "meschief", which originated from the Vulgar Latin "miscaupa", meaning "misfortune" or "evil action". The term further evolved in Middle English, where it took on the sense of "harm" or "evil deed". Over time, it came to refer more specifically to playful or mildly malicious behavior.