misstep

From mis- +‎ step.

misstep (plural missteps)

1. A step that is wrong, a false step.

   On a high ledge, a misstep could be fatal.

   • 1912, Zane Grey, Riders of the Purple Sage, Chapter 8

     […] burdened as he was, he did not think of length or height or toil. He remembered only to avoid a misstep and to keep his direction.

2. (figuratively) An error or mistake.

   His comment was a misstep that could cost him dearly.

• (error): error, faux pas, mistake

misstep (third-person singular simple present missteps, present participle misstepping, simple past and past participle misstepped)

1. (intransitive) To step badly or incorrectly.

   My dance partner misstepped and landed on my toe.

2. (intransitive) To make an error or mistake.

   I don't want to misstep by offending them.

• impests