incorrect
Incorrect (adj) means Wrong or not accurate. Example: “The answer he gave was incorrect.”
How to use incorrect
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishNot right — either factually wrong or socially improper.
Word forms
more incorrect comparative, incorrects plural, most incorrect superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The answer he gave was _____.
Etymology
From Middle French incorrect, built from in- ("not") plus correct.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for incorrect
See all rhymes for incorrect →Frequently asked questions
What does “incorrect” mean?
The word “incorrect” means wrong or not accurate. In plain terms, not right — either factually wrong or socially improper.
How do you pronounce “incorrect”?
“Incorrect” is pronounced ihn-kuh-REHKT (/ˌɪn.kəˈɹɛkt/ in IPA).
How do you use “incorrect” in a sentence?
Here is “incorrect” used in a sentence: “The answer he gave was incorrect.”
What is the opposite of “incorrect”?
The opposite of “incorrect” — its antonyms — are correct, right and proper.
What part of speech is “incorrect”?
“Incorrect” is an adjective.
Where does the word “incorrect” come from?
The word “incorrect” comes from Middle French. From Middle French incorrect, built from in- ("not") plus correct.
Is “incorrect” a common word?
“Incorrect” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “incorrect” have?
“Incorrect” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: wrong or not accurate.
What is the difference between incorrect and wrong?
Both mean not right, but 'incorrect' is more formal and neutral, often used for factual errors, as in 'an incorrect answer'. 'Wrong' is more general and can also carry a moral sense, as in 'it was wrong to lie'.
What is the difference between incorrect and inaccurate?
Incorrect means simply not right or containing an error. Inaccurate specifically means not exact or close enough, so a figure can be inaccurate by being slightly off while still being roughly right, whereas incorrect points to a clear mistake.
When should you use 'incorrect' instead of 'improper'?
Use 'incorrect' for something factually wrong or inaccurate, such as a miscalculation. Use 'improper' for behaviour that is not suitable or acceptable, since although incorrect can also describe conduct that is not proper, 'improper' is the more natural choice for manners.
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