HYPERCORRECTNESS Meaning and
Definition
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Hypercorrectness is a linguistic phenomenon characterized by the excessive and incorrect use of language forms or rules, usually stemming from a desire to sound more educated or sophisticated. It refers to an exaggerated attempt to avoid perceived errors or deviations from prescriptive norms, resulting in overcorrection or misuse of grammar, pronunciation, vocabulary, or syntax. In other words, hypercorrectness occurs when individuals go to great lengths to adhere to rigid language rules, even if their application is inappropriate or misguided.
This concept is often associated with speakers who are overly concerned with formal correctness or who place a high value on social prestige associated with language usage. They may engage in hypercorrect speech by substituting incorrect words or phrases, mispronouncing words, or applying nonstandard grammar to conform to an internalized and strict linguistic standard. Hypercorrection can be seen as an attempt to compensate for perceived deficiencies in language knowledge, often resulting in unintentional errors or linguistic distortions.
Hypercorrectness can be observed in various languages and contexts, but it is particularly prevalent in situations where there is a disparity between formal and informal language or when individuals strive to imitate a higher social class. It can lead to misunderstandings, awkward expressions, or an artificial and stilted style of communication. While striving for correctness in language can be admirable, hypercorrectness highlights the importance of maintaining a balanced approach towards language use, aiming for clear and effective communication rather than rigid adherence to formal norms.
Common Misspellings for HYPERCORRECTNESS
- gypercorrectness
- bypercorrectness
- nypercorrectness
- jypercorrectness
- uypercorrectness
- yypercorrectness
- htpercorrectness
- hgpercorrectness
- hhpercorrectness
- hupercorrectness
- h7percorrectness
- h6percorrectness
- hyoercorrectness
- hylercorrectness
- hy0ercorrectness
- hypwrcorrectness
- hypsrcorrectness
- hypdrcorrectness
- hyprrcorrectness
- hyp4rcorrectness
Etymology of HYPERCORRECTNESS
The word "hypercorrectness" is derived from the combination of the prefix "hyper-" and the noun "correctness".
The prefix "hyper-" comes from the Greek word "hýper" meaning "over" or "beyond". It is commonly used in English to indicate excess, exaggeration, or an extreme degree.
The noun "correctness" stems from the verb "correct", derived from the Latin word "corrigere", meaning "to set right" or "to rectify". It refers to the quality or state of being accurate, proper, or conforming to a standard.
Thus, when the prefix "hyper-" is attached to "correctness", it emphasizes the notion of excessive or exaggerated correctness.
