noun

hypercorrection

hy-per-kuh-REK-shuhn

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Hypercorrection (noun) means the nonstandard use of language that results from applying a perceived grammar rule too broadly. Example: “Saying "between you and I" is a well-known example of hypercorrection.”

noun

linguistics The nonstandard use of language that results from applying a perceived grammar rule too broadly.

"Saying "between you and I" is a well-known example of hypercorrection."

"The teacher explained how hypercorrection can make speech sound stilted."

"Nervousness about sounding uneducated often drives hypercorrection."

linguistics A particular nonstandard word or phrase produced by overapplying such a rule.

""Whom" is sometimes used as a hypercorrection where "who" would be correct."

"Linguists collected several hypercorrections from the recorded interviews."

"That extra "s" is a common hypercorrection in plural forms."

How to use hypercorrection

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishHypercorrection happens when someone tries so hard to follow a grammar rule that they end up using it where it does not belong.

When to use it

Hypercorrection is a term used mainly in linguistics and grammar discussion rather than everyday speech.

Memory tip

If a rule you learned makes a sentence sound overly formal or wrong, you may be looking at a hypercorrection.

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Common pairings

common hypercorrection classic example of hypercorrection linguistic hypercorrection

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Saying "between you and I" is a well-known example of _____.

Etymology

Hypercorrection is formed within English from the prefix hyper-, meaning excessive, added to correction. It describes correction that has been taken too far.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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hypercorrectism

Rhymes for hypercorrection

region ablation allusion emulsion ideation novation diffusion elocution extension oxidation perfusion selection

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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.

What is the meaning of hypercorrection?

"hypercorrection" (noun) means the nonstandard use of language that results from applying a perceived grammar rule too broadly.