correct

/kəˈrɛkt/
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To make something right or free from error.

Examples

  • He was corrected by his peers for the oversight.
  • I need to correct the figures in the spreadsheet.
  • Scientists consider the data correct after verification.
  • He wore a correct uniform for the ceremony.
  • Her calculations turned out correct.

Similar words

rectify
exact
reprimand
spot-on
admonish
right
right
rebuke
repairrevise

Meanings

Accurate or true

adjective
everyday
neutral
Being in agreement with the facts or with what is generally accepted

Examples

  • The weather forecast was correct.
  • Her calculations turned out correct.
  • The map shows the city correct.
  • His answer was correct according to the test key.
  • Scientists consider the data correct after verification.

Similar words

Proper or appropriate

adjective
social
neutral
Conforming to a rule, standard, or expectation

Examples

  • He wore a correct uniform for the ceremony.
  • She used the correct form of address when speaking to the judge.
  • The correct procedure was followed during the experiment.
  • Make sure the settings are correct before starting the machine.
  • The teacher praised his correct behavior in class.

Similar words

Fix or make right

verb
everyday
neutral
To change something so that it is accurate or conforms to a standard

Examples

  • She corrected the typo in the report.
  • The mechanic corrected the engine's timing.
  • He corrected his posture after the doctor’s advice.
  • They corrected the mistake before publishing the article.
  • I need to correct the figures in the spreadsheet.

Similar words

Rebuke or point out a mistake

verb
social
neutral
To tell someone that they are wrong or to discipline them for an error

Examples

  • The coach corrected the player for his foul.
  • She corrected him when he mispronounced the word.
  • The manager corrected the staff about the new policy.
  • He was corrected by his peers for the oversight.
  • The teacher corrected the student’s misunderstanding.

Similar words

Etymology

FAQ

What does correct mean?

It means to make something right or free from error.

How is correct used as an adjective meaning accurate?

As an adjective, correct means accurate or true, agreeing with facts or what is generally accepted.

When is correct used to mean proper or appropriate?

It can also mean proper or appropriate, conforming to a rule, standard, or expectation.

What is the verb sense of correct that means to fix something?

As a verb, correct means to change something so that it is accurate or meets a standard.

What does it mean to correct someone in a social context?

It means to tell someone they are wrong or to discipline them for an error.

What are some synonyms for correct when it means accurate?

Synonyms include accurate, true, exact, right, precise, faithful, unerring, spot-on.

What are some synonyms for correct when it means appropriate?

Synonyms include appropriate, proper, suitable, right, fitting, acceptable, adequate, apt.

What are some synonyms for correct as a verb meaning to fix?

Synonyms include fix, amend, rectify, adjust, repair, revise, edit, remedy.

What are some synonyms for correct as a verb meaning to rebuke?

Synonyms include reprimand, scold, chide, admonish, reprove, censure, rebuke, lecture.

How do you choose between the adjective and verb forms of correct?

Use the adjective when describing something that is accurate or proper, and the verb when you need to fix an error or rebuke someone.

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