correct

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "correct" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that something is accurate or true, or to indicate that you agree with a statement or opinion. For example, "That is the correct answer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The correct figure is 74%.

The Guardian

The accountant's fees claimed were for preparing his office accounts to ensure the correct amount of tax was paid.

The Guardian

This article was amended on 16 April 2015 to correct a quote from Nick Clegg.

The Guardian

"We have to correct that".

The New York Times

"You are correct," he wrote back, two days later.

The Guardian - Opinion

I'd read the lyrics of songs I liked, lots of Led Zeppelin and AC/DC, and got my friends to correct me when I spoke poorly.

The Guardian - Sport

The film is correct that Disney gave Travers script approval; it was apparently the only time he had ever granted this right to anyone outside his company, except for government censors during the second world war.

The Guardian - Film

Billing it as an alternative to "lame-stream" TV and partnered with new media group Tapp, Palin promises to tackle ideas "Washington doesn't want you to hear" and to "cut through the media's politically correct filter".

The Guardian

And so, seeing an opportunity to help tackle it, Dewey set up a Twitter bot "to quietly, politely correct misgendering errors".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But when done the correct way, the blood parameters for the heart look beautiful".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Why do pedants correct mistakes as if affronted – as if a family member had been insulted?

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "correct" as an adjective, ensure it clearly modifies a noun, specifying what is accurate or conforming to a standard. For example, "the correct answer" or "correct procedure".

Common error

Avoid overuse of "correct" in highly formal writing. While grammatically sound, consider stronger synonyms like "accurate", "precise", or "validated" to enhance the impact and sophistication of your prose.

Linguistic Context

The word "correct" primarily functions as an adjective to describe something that is accurate or in accordance with established standards. It can also serve as a verb, meaning to rectify or point out errors. Ludwig provides examples of both usages, confirming its versatility in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "correct" is a versatile term functioning as both an adjective and a verb, widely used to indicate accuracy, agreement, or the act of rectification. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, notably in news and media. While "correct" is generally neutral, synonyms like "accurate" or "precise" may enhance formality in specific writing scenarios. Remember to ensure that the use of the word "correct" is clear and specific to avoid ambiguity. Given the robust examples and authoritative sources, the use of the word "correct" is encouraged.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accurate

Focuses specifically on the absence of error and adherence to facts.

right

A more general term indicating agreement with fact or standard.

true

Emphasizes correspondence with reality or a verified state.

precise

Highlights exactness and attention to detail.

exact

Stresses complete conformity to fact or a defined standard.

faultless

Indicates an absence of any flaws or mistakes.

impeccable

Suggests a high degree of flawlessness, especially in behavior or execution.

veritable

Emphasizes the truth or genuineness of something, often unexpected.

appropriate

Highlights suitability for a particular purpose or circumstance.

fitting

Emphasizes that something is well-suited or proper in a specific situation.

FAQs

How do I use "correct" in a sentence?

You can use "correct" as an adjective to describe something that is accurate or in accordance with fact, such as "That is the "correct answer"". It can also be used as a verb, meaning to rectify or point out errors, such as "Please "correct my mistakes"".

What words can I use instead of "correct"?

Depending on the context, you can use words like "accurate", "right", "true", or "precise" as alternatives to "correct".

Is it "correct" to say "more correct"?

While grammatically acceptable, "more correct" can sound awkward. It's often better to use alternatives such as "more accurate" or simply rephrase the sentence for clarity. You could also use "most accurate" or "most precise".

What's the difference between "correct" and "right"?

"Correct" typically implies adherence to facts or a specific standard, whereas "right" can also encompass moral or ethical dimensions. Something can be morally "right" but factually "incorrect", and vice versa.