Abstract
Misunderstanding is – in accordance with understanding and in partial contrast to non‐understanding – presented here as a relation consisting of different elements. In that way, important asymmetries come to the fore. Following Heidegger and Wittgenstein it is argued for the priority of understanding over misunderstanding promoted by deconstructivist accounts. Then, the divergent dealings with misunderstandings beyond the way of just avoiding them will be elaborated, leading to misunderstanding’s appreciation.