politically correct — conforming to a belief that language and practices which could offend political sensibilities should be eliminated
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: conforming to a belief that language and practices which could offend political sensibilities should be eliminated
Pronunciation (IPA): /pəˈlɪtɪkli kəˈrekt/
Example Sentences
- My grandmother refuses to use politically correct terms and still calls the refrigerator an 'icebox'.
- The university's politically correct guidelines require inclusive language in all official documents.
- He's so politically correct that he apologizes to his houseplants before watering them.
politically correct
ADJECTIVE[/pəˈlɪtɪkli kəˈrekt/]
conforming to a belief that language and practices which could offend political sensibilities should be eliminated
conforming to a belief that language and practices which could offend political sensibilities should be eliminated
Be politically correct to protect, yet still direct
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The phrase emerged in 1930s America to describe adherence to political doctrine, but acquired its modern meaning—language and behavior aligned with progressive social values—from the 1980s onward. The term gained widespread currency during debates about inclusive language and social sensitivity in academic and public discourse.
Breakdown
politically (in a political manner, from politics + -ally) + correct (right, accurate, from Latin correctus, past participle of corrigere meaning 'to set right').
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My grandmother refuses to use politically correct terms and still calls the refrigerator an 'icebox'.”
“The university's politically correct guidelines require inclusive language in all official documents.”
“He's so politically correct that he apologizes to his houseplants before watering them.”
📚Related Words
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