Their interpretation was completely different from what you had hoped for. Now what to do? It's pretty simple, apologize. Just be the bigger person and apologize even though you feel you may not have said anything wrong. Most arguements get intense or turn into yelling matches because of a miscommunication and the person who miscommunicated is getting defensive instead of being responsive to the mere fact that there is something they said that was unclear.
Before getting defensive, be responsive and accept the fact that you sent a mixed message. Try to make the point that you are trying to present in a different way. Elaborate, paraphrase or even rephrase whatever you may have said that triggered the miscommunication. If you are texting or in an online chat and the miscommunication happens and if you know the person you may want to consider picking up the phone and giving them a call for clarity.
At times when there is no communication it leads to miscommunication. For example, you are in a relationship and your significant other is mad at you because you hurt their feelings with something you said. So you decide she/he needs space or time so you say and do nothing. Now the person feels neglected, think you don't care or what they feel doesn't matter because you never communicated with them about how you felt or was responsive to their concerns. By not commuicating you sent all the wrong messages which helps feed the initial miscommunication.
Knowing when to provide clarity, when not to and when it will be helpful is very important for your personal health. Some people have a problem comprehending and no matter what you say or do to clarify what your message is will help.
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