misapply
Definitions
To put something to a wrong or unsuitable use.
To apply or interpret something incorrectly.
Examples
It is easy to misapply the rules when you do not fully understand the context of the situation.
The manager warned the team not to misapply the company's new safety protocols during the construction project.
He tended to misapply his vast knowledge of physics to social situations, which often left his friends confused.
Synonyms
misuse abuse misappropriate pervert misemploy squander waste