Distrust is usually based on evidence, while mistrust is usually based on instinct.

per Gemini:

While these words are often used interchangeably in casual conversation, there is a distinct nuance between them involving the source of the feeling.

The short answer is: Distrust is usually based on evidence, while mistrust is usually based on instinct.¹

Here is the breakdown of the differences:

1. Distrust (Evidence-Based)²

Distrust is a definitive, active lack of trust.³ It is typically a rational conclusion drawn from past experience, reliable information, or specific actions. You distrust someone because you have a reason to.⁴

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• The Vibe: "I know you are not reliable."
• The Source: Experience, facts, or a broken promise.⁵
• Key implication: The trust has been lost or severed.⁶
• Example: "I distrust that politician because I fact-checked his speech and found three lies."

2. Mistrust (Instinct-Based)⁷

Mistrust is a general sense of unease, suspicion, or doubt.⁸ It is often more subjective, stemming from uncertainty or a "gut feeling" rather than concrete proof.⁹ It implies a lack of confidence rather than a confirmed betrayal.¹⁰

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• The Vibe: "I’m not sure about this."
• The Source: Fear, intuition, unfamiliarity, or caution.¹¹
• Key implication: The trust was never fully established to begin with.¹²
• Example: "The stray dog eyed the hikers with mistrust, keeping its distance until they offered it food."

How to Remember the Difference (The Prefix Trick)

You can often look at the prefixes to remember the nuance:

• Dis- (as in Disconnected): This prefix often means "apart" or "away."¹³ In distrust, the trust has been actively removed or rejected.¹⁴ It is a definitive severance.
• Mis- (as in Mistake): This prefix often means "wrong" or "badly."¹⁵ In mistrust, you suspect something is "wrong," but you might not have the full picture yet.¹⁶ It is a state of wariness.¹⁷

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Summary Comparison

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