Definitions

off base

[awf-beys, of-] / ˈɔfˈbeɪs, ˈɒf- /

PHRASE

mistaken; inappropriate; inapt

Synonyms

STRONGEST

erroneous inaccurate mistaken sadly mistaken wrong

STRONG

amiss improper inappropriate unsuitable

WEAK

beside the point inapt malapropos offside out in left field out of line unconnected unrelated

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

What we are measuring, why we are measuring it, and where we might be off base.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

That is quite the takeaway, not to mention depressingly way off base from the point.

From Salon • Mar. 21, 2026

Public perception of a double-standard for the wealthy and powerful may not be so off base.

From BBC • Dec. 3, 2024

But as the leverage situations have increased, Thornton has struggled to keep runners off base.

From Seattle Times • May 16, 2024

Two letters from Pasadena that week brought the news that Pauling was still way off base.

From "Double Helix" by James D. Watson