correction
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /kərˈɛkʃən/
US
- /kərˈɛkʃən/
Description
- making something right
- removing an error
- improving accuracy
- small change
- punishment
A correction isn't always about someone being wrong; it can simply be a change that makes something clearer or more accurate. Think of editing a paper—you might make corrections to improve the flow, even if there weren't obvious errors. It can also relate to discipline, such as in a prison system. You might offer a gentle correction to a friend who mispronounces a word, or a stern correction to a child who is behaving badly. The context tells you whether it's helpful guidance or disciplinary action!
The word "correction" refers to the act of making something right, accurate, or improved. It's more than just fixing mistakes; it often involves refining, adjusting, or amending something that already exists. For example, a newspaper might issue a correction after printing inaccurate information, acknowledging its error and providing the accurate details. "The editor printed a correction on page two."
But "correction" isn't limited to factual errors. It also describes the process of guiding behavior and performance. A teacher might offer corrections on a student's essay to point out areas for improvement, while a coach might give a firm correction when a player shows poor sportsmanship. Interestingly, "correction" also refers to the legal system of prisons and rehabilitation; a correctional facility is where individuals are held accountable with the hope of helping them change their path in life.
In specialized fields, the word takes on even more specific meanings. In finance, a "market correction" is a short-term drop in stock prices that brings them back to more realistic levels after being overvalued. In medicine, "vision correction"—such as glasses or surgery—helps the eyes focus properly. Even in photography or film, "color correction" involves adjusting hues and brightness to achieve a natural or desired look.
So, whether it's fixing errors, adjusting markets, reforming behavior, or enhancing visuals, "correction" is about bringing something closer to its ideal state—making things right, better, and more accurate.
Examples
- 1
Teacher feedback
The teacher marked a few corrections on my essay.
- 2
Editing
Please make the correction in red so I can find it quickly.
- 3
Typing app
This app makes automatic corrections as you type.
- 4
Newspaper
The newspaper published a correction the next day.
- 5
Spoken clarification
I need to make one small correction to what I said earlier.
Pattern
correction to + statement/information
a change to something that was wrong
- 6
Quick update
Sorry, one correction: the train leaves at 6:15, not 6:50.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- correctionnoun
Forms
- correctionspluralnoun