correct sentence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "correct sentence" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used when talking about a sentence that is grammatically accurate and makes logical sense. Example: "The teacher asked the students to write a correct sentence using the vocabulary words they learned in class."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

So it's a perfectly correct sentence.

The Guardian

They may have trouble interpreting what they are reading or writing a grammatically correct sentence.

The New York Times

However, the surprise came in the last question, which was to compose the longest grammatically correct sentence you can.

The New York Times

"It was a correct sentence and a courageous sentence," said Henry Froshin, the lawyer representing Ms. Ayers.

The New York Times

We should trust the judges to determine the correct sentence; those who deserve six months will get six months, those who do not, will not.

The Guardian

Court officials said that there originally had been a transcription error of the hearing on March 14 , 2007 and that three years was the correct sentence.

The New York Times

Those who take a dark view of where the language is headed can only stare open-mouthed in disbelief that the College Board experts, specifically focused on composing a grammatically correct sentence, wrote an error into it.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

"Concise and grammatically correct sentences are essential," she says.

The Guardian

At 18 months, she was speaking in grammatically correct sentences, introducing herself to people with, "I'm Janni Paige and I am 18 months old".

The Guardian

Wallace writes in grammatically correct sentences; he tells jokes; and his work, if you are wired a certain way, will affect you emotionally.

The New York Times - Books

Prose in which an author's voice emerges through layers of perfectly correct sentences is the hardest kind of writing there is.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When proofreading, use "correct sentence" to ensure both grammatical accuracy and clarity of meaning.

Common error

Ensure the "correct sentence" also aligns with the intended meaning within the broader text. A grammatically perfect sentence can still be misleading if it doesn't fit the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "correct sentence" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject, object, or complement within a larger sentence. Ludwig indicates it is commonly used to refer to sentences adhering to grammatical rules and conveying intended meaning.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

28%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "correct sentence" refers to a sentence free of grammatical errors and conveying a clear meaning. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It's prevalent in Science and News & Media, reflecting a need for precision and accuracy. The phrase is generally suitable for various contexts, though awareness of register can enhance its appropriateness. When aiming for accuracy, keep in mind that the "correct sentence" also means one that also fits its surrounding context and meaning, as well as being grammatically accurate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grammatically correct sentence

Adds emphasis to grammatical accuracy, making it very similar.

grammatically sound sentence

Focuses specifically on the grammatical accuracy of the sentence.

accurate sentence

Emphasizes the precision and factual correctness of the sentence's content.

error-free sentence

Highlights the absence of mistakes in the sentence.

flawless sentence

Suggests a sentence with no imperfections in grammar or style.

valid sentence

Implies the sentence adheres to logical and grammatical rules.

well-formed sentence

Focuses on the sentence having a proper structure.

properly constructed sentence

Highlights the structure and formation of the sentence.

perfect sentence

Implies the sentence is without any fault in construction, clarity, or content.

unobjectionable sentence

Highlights acceptability of the sentence based on general language rules.

FAQs

How can I ensure I'm writing a "correct sentence"?

Double-check your grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. Reading your sentence aloud can also help identify errors.

What's the difference between a "correct sentence" and a grammatically correct sentence?

While both emphasize accuracy, a "correct sentence" might also imply semantic appropriateness and contextual relevance, not just grammatical perfection. A grammatically correct sentence focuses more narrowly on adherence to grammar rules.

What are some common errors that prevent a sentence from being a "correct sentence"?

Common errors include subject-verb agreement issues, incorrect tense usage, misplaced modifiers, and punctuation mistakes. Also ensure that the sentence is not ambiguous. Aim for alternatives like a "grammatically sound sentence" to emphasize the error correction.

Which is more important, a complex sentence or a "correct sentence"?

A "correct sentence" is always more important. Complexity should enhance, not detract from, clarity and grammatical accuracy. Focus on writing clear and correct sentences first before adding complexity. Prioritize being "grammatically correct sentence" over unnecessary complexity.