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correct

When used as an adjective, "correct" usually means something is accurate or true. It can also describe behavior that follows social rules (politeness). When used as a verb, it describes the act of fixing a mistake. Note that while correcting a paper is helpful, "correcting a person" can sometimes be seen as rude depending on the tone used. Be careful not to confuse "correct" with "right." While they are often synonyms, "correct" sounds slightly more formal and technical.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Chloe is procrastinating on a term paper while Maya is at the gym.
Chloe Smith

Wait, did I totally botch the date for the exhibit?

Chloe Smith
Maya
Maya

Correct. You're off by a week.

💡
Chloe uses the slang 'botch' (to ruin or make a mistake), and Maya responds with 'correct' as a blunt, one-word confirmation of Chloe's error, reflecting her brutally honest personality.

Meanings

adjective

Free from error; in accordance with fact or truth.

"The student provided the correct answer to the complex math problem."

adjective

Socially acceptable or conforming to the accepted standards of behavior.

"It is not considered correct to speak loudly in a library."

verb (transitive)

To put right an error or fault in something; to mark and indicate errors in a piece of writing.

"The teacher will correct the essays over the weekend."

verb (transitive)

To punish someone for a fault or mistake, often through discipline.

"Parents often feel it is their duty to correct their children's behavior."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error