Correct
/kəˈrɛkt/
Definitions
3 meaningsFree from error; true; accurate.
/kəˈrɛkt/
Free from error; in accordance with fact or truth.
The correct solution to the problem involves careful analysis.
💡 Simply: Being right and not wrong. Like when you choose the right answer on a test or follow the right instructions when building something.
👶 For kids: When something is correct, it means it's right and not wrong.
More Examples
Make sure to enter the correct password.
The patient received the correct medication.
How It's Used
"The correct answer is C."
"The teacher graded the student's test and marked the correct answers."
To make something right or accurate; to remove errors or mistakes.
/kəˈrɛkt/
To amend or rectify.
Please correct any spelling errors in your report.
💡 Simply: To fix a mistake. Like when you edit a paper to remove errors, or fix your posture.
👶 For kids: When you correct something, you fix it if it's wrong.
More Examples
The editor corrected the manuscript before publication.
The software automatically corrected the grammar.
How It's Used
"Please correct any mistakes in your essay."
"The teacher had to correct many papers with errors"
To reprimand or scold someone, especially in order to improve their behavior.
/kəˈrɛkt/
To reprimand or rebuke.
The parent gently corrected the child’s manners.
💡 Simply: To tell someone they did something wrong, in order to help them learn and do better next time. Like when a parent scolds a child.
👶 For kids: When you correct someone's behavior, you tell them what they did wrong and how to do it right.
More Examples
The teacher had to correct the students who were talking.
The coach corrected the player's technique.
How It's Used
"The principal corrected the students' misbehavior."
Idioms & expressions
correct me if I'm wrong
Used to invite someone to tell you if you are mistaken or if you have made a mistake.
"Correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't he say he would be here?"
From Latin *corrigere* 'to make straight, to amend', from *com-* (together) + *regere* (to direct, rule).
The word 'correct' has been used since the 14th century, and it has undergone subtle shifts in meaning over time.
Memory tip
Think of 'correct' as being 'right' and 'accurate' like when you get the answer right.
Word Origin
"to make straight, to amend"