hypercorrection
1 synonym for hypercorrection, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The nonstandard use of language that results from applying a perceived grammar rule too broadly.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
hypercorrectism
How to use hypercorrection
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
common hypercorrection
classic example of hypercorrection
linguistic hypercorrection
Hypercorrection is a term used mainly in linguistics and grammar discussion rather than everyday speech.
Etymology
Hypercorrection is formed within English from the prefix hyper-, meaning excessive, added to correction. It describes correction that has been taken too far.
Full origin of hypercorrection →Frequently asked questions
What is hypercorrection in linguistics?
Hypercorrection is nonstandard language that comes from applying a grammar rule more widely than it should be applied.
What is an example of hypercorrection?
Using "between you and I" instead of "between you and me" is a classic example, where a rule about pronoun case is overextended.
Why do people use hypercorrections?
People often produce them while trying to sound more correct or formal than their everyday speech.
