mispairing

Incorrect partner selection

Mispairing is the incorrect matching of things that should pair differently.

In genetics, it refers to errors during DNA replication when the wrong nucleotide bases bond together, potentially causing mutations.

More generally, mispairing describes any faulty coupling: The mispairing of socks after laundry is inevitable.

The verb mispair works similarly: The enzyme mispaired the bases.

mismatch

incompatible

Unable to exist together

misalignedNot properly positioned
ill-fittingNot the right size
discrepantNot in agreement

incongruous · mismatched · clashing · unsuitable · discordant · uncoordinated · out-of-place · jarring · maladjusted · inconsistent

relationship

incompatibility

Unable to function together

mismatchIncompatible combination
ill-suitedNot appropriate for
unsuitedNot appropriate for

genetics

mutation

Permanent DNA alteration

nucleotideGenetic code subunit
DNAHereditary code molecule
codonBase triplet encoding amino

chromosome · allele · genome · sequence · adenine · thymine · cytosine · guanine · polymerase

error

mistake

Wrong action or decision

glitchMinor system fault
faultImperfection or blame
oversightSupervision or inadvertent omission

mix-up · blunder · slip · foul-up · snafu · bungle · confusion · miscategorization · misassignment · switcheroo

Opposites

correctness of matching

mispairingmatching

Identical in appearance

alignment status

mispairingalignment

Correct relative positioning

proper alignment · correspondence · congruence · match · compatibility

Family

pair, repaired, paired, repairing, pairs, pairing, unpaired, unpairing, mispaired

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