Distortion, or misrepresentation, occurs when information is presented in a way that alters its original meaning or context. This can happen through selective omission, exaggeration, or manipulation of facts, leading to a skewed understanding of the subject. For example, a news article might highlight only negative aspects of a political figure while ignoring their achievements, creating a biased perception. In communication, distortion can affect how messages are received and interpreted. It can arise in various forms, such as advertising that misleads consumers about a product's effectiveness or social media posts that share misleading statistics. This can ultimately shape public opinion and influence decision-making.