What does incorrect mean?
Incorrect is an adjective meaning wrong, false, mistaken, or contrary to an accepted rule or standard. It is used when a statement, answer, calculation, inference, or procedure departs from what is considered true or proper. The word appears regularly in education, journalism, law, science, and everyday conversation, particularly in expressions such as an incorrect answer, incorrect information, or an incorrect assumption. Incorrect generally conveys factual or procedural fault rather than mere personal dislike; a result may be called incorrect because it is demonstrably false, logically flawed, or based on an error. The related adverb incorrectly describes an action performed wrongly, while incorrectness names the condition or quality of being wrong. Although often contrasted with correct, incorrect is also useful when emphasizing that a conclusion, representation, or use fails to meet an established standard. Its straightforward negation structure makes it a familiar and useful term for identifying and correcting error.
adjectiveNot correct in fact, reasoning, or conformity to an accepted standard.
- Wrong in fact, logic, or judgment; false or erroneous.
- Unsuitable or contrary to accepted rules, standards, or proper use.
"The report contained an incorrect figure that led to widespread confusion."
"Her answer was incorrect, but the method she used was sound."
"Using the emergency exit as a shortcut is incorrect and could endanger other passengers."
The prefix in- turns “correct” into its opposite, creating a concise standard for anything mistaken or improper.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does incorrect come from?
Incorrect combines the Latin-derived negating prefix in- with correct, meaning “right” or “proper.” The English base correct was borrowed from French correct, ultimately from Latin correctus, a form of rectus meaning “straight” or “right.” Its relatives correctness, correction, and corrective preserve the same Latin root, while incorrect gives the root an explicitly negative meaning.
Related word forms
How incorrect is actually used
Incorrect is common in formal and informal registers. It is direct and often carries a corrective or mildly disapproving tone, especially when describing information, reasoning, or behaviour.