take the wrong way

take (something) the wrong way

To misunderstand or misinterpret something, especially in such a way as to take offense at what is said or done. Now, I hope you don't take this the wrong way, but I think it would be easier for everyone if you waited to visit until the baby is a few weeks old. I simply don't post online comments anymore, because too often what I say is taken the wrong way.
See also: take, way, wrong
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

take the wrong way

Also, take amiss. Misunderstand, misinterpret, especially so as to take offense. For example, I don't want you to take this the wrong way, but you have to give others a chance to speak , or Please don't take their criticism amiss; they mean well. The variant dates from the late 1300s. Also see get someone wrong.
See also: take, way, wrong
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
See also:
  • take (something) the wrong way
  • take something the wrong way
  • take (something) in the wrong way
  • don't get me wrong
  • get (one) wrong
  • get somebody wrong
  • get someone wrong
  • get wrong
  • get the wrong end of the stick
  • get hold of the wrong end of the stick