Correct Meaning

UK /kəˈrɛkt/
US /kəˈrɛkt/
Word Definition
correct meaning

Correct Definition & Usage

adjective

Free from errors; accurate and without mistakes.

Examples

  • "You need to make sure your answer is correct before submitting it."
  • "The correct way to solve this equation is by first simplifying both sides."
  • "Can you double-check the spelling to ensure it's correct?"
  • "The correct time for the meeting is 3:00 PM, not 2:00 PM."
  • "He gave the correct response to every question on the quiz."
verb

To make something right or accurate; to amend or fix.

Examples

  • "The teacher corrected the students' assignments after class."
  • "Please correct your report by adding the missing data."
  • "I need to correct the mistake in the calculations before the final submission."
  • "She corrected her posture when she noticed it was slouching."
  • "The doctor corrected the misdiagnosis after further testing."
adjective

Conforming to what is morally right or accepted as proper behavior.

Examples

  • "It is correct to tell the truth, even if it is difficult."
  • "His actions were not correct, and he had to apologize."
  • "In this situation, the correct thing to do is to offer help."
  • "She made the correct decision by standing up for what was right."
  • "It's not always easy to know what is morally correct."

Cultural Context

The word 'correct' comes from the Latin 'correctus', meaning 'to straighten or set right'. In modern English, it has evolved to denote accuracy in various domains, such as academic, professional, and moral contexts.

The Correct Choice

Story

The Correct Choice

One day, Sarah, a high school student, found herself in a dilemma. She had just finished her final exam and was staring at the clock, knowing she had only minutes left to double-check her answers. The question she had hesitated on was about the causes of the American Civil War. She knew the correct answer, but she had been unsure whether her explanation was thorough enough. As Sarah reviewed her answer, she realized a small error in her reasoning. She quickly corrected it, adding a crucial piece of information about the economic factors. Feeling relieved, she handed in her paper just in time. Her teacher, Mr. Thompson, was known for his meticulous attention to detail. He would always correct mistakes with patience, offering constructive feedback. Later that week, Sarah received her graded exam. To her delight, she had received full marks. However, one of her classmates, Tim, had struggled with the same question. He had written a partially correct answer, but it was lacking depth. After class, Sarah overheard Mr. Thompson explaining to Tim the importance of fully understanding the concept in order to give the correct answer in future exams. 'It's not just about memorizing facts,' Mr. Thompson said, 'It's about understanding what is morally and intellectually correct.' That evening, Sarah reflected on Mr. Thompson's words. She realized that the correct answer wasn't just the one that matched the textbook; it was the one that demonstrated a deeper understanding of history and its implications. As she walked home, she couldn't help but smile, knowing that making the correct choice, even in small matters, always led to a greater sense of satisfaction.

The Correct Choice