Definition

A mistake made in language when someone tries too hard to be correct, often by using the wrong form or pronunciation because they think it sounds better or more proper.

Example

Using 'I' instead of 'me' in the sentence 'He invited my husband and I to lunch' is an example of hypercorrection.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term hypercorrection?

Yeah, it's when someone tries too hard to be correct, right?

Exactly! Like when people say 'my husband and I' instead of 'my husband and me'.

Exactly! It's funny how trying to be correct can actually lead to mistakes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hypercorrection is formed from "hyper-" (meaning over or excessive) and "correctio" (from Latin, meaning correction). The word describes an excessive or overly meticulous correction of language or behavior, often leading to errors instead of improvements.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hyper-' meaning 'over' and 'correctio' meaning 'correction' — this helps you remember that hypercorrection refers to an excessive attempt to correct something.

Visually Confused Words