There are various synonyms for the word "mishandles", which usually means to manage or deal with something or someone poorly. Some of the synonyms include: mishap, mismanage, misconduct, mistreat, bungle, fumble, botch, blunder, misrun, err, fail, mess up, mishit, and many more. These words can be used to describe situations where one has failed to handle something properly, resulting in negative outcomes or consequences. It is important to choose the appropriate synonym based on the context in which it is being used, to accurately convey the meaning and intention behind it.