a case of mistaken identity

noun phrase

: a situation due to being mistaken for someone else
Her arrest was a case of mistaken identity.

Examples of a case of mistaken identity in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The manhunt now continues as the sighting was determined a case of mistaken identity. Becca Longmire, People.com, 10 July 2025 The 15-year-old was chased by members of the Trinitarios gang into a Bronx bodega and viciously attacked with knives and machetes in a case of mistaken identity. Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 30 June 2025 Though there’s some disagreement, most shark researchers believe shark attacks are a case of mistaken identity: A shark may confuse a person for prey. Scottie Andrew, CNN Money, 20 June 2025 Jacobs, 31, who performed under the name August 08, was killed Aug. 26, 2023, in what prosecutors assert was a case of mistaken identity. Matthew Ormseth, Los Angeles Times, 8 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for a case of mistaken identity

Browse Nearby Words

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“A case of mistaken identity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/a%20case%20of%20mistaken%20identity. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!