Mishandle implies a lack of care or skill in handling something, often resulting in damage or a negative outcome. It suggests a more general sense of incompetence.
* Example: The company mishandled the customer complaint, leading to further frustration.
Botch suggests a more complete and obvious failure, often with a comical or embarrassing element. It implies a lack of skill or experience that leads to a disastrous result.
* Example: The chef botched the recipe, serving a burnt and tasteless meal.
Here's a helpful way to think about it:
* Mishandle: A minor stumble, like dropping a glass of water.
* Botch: A major disaster, like burning down the kitchen.
Ultimately, the best word to use depends on the specific context and the level of severity of the error.