Definition

Noun: 1. The quality or state of being politically incorrect: The use of language, behavior, or ideas that do not conform to the prevailing social norms of sensitivity and inclusivity, especially regarding groups considered socially disadvantaged or marginalized. 2. An instance of such language or behavior: A specific expression, action, or policy perceived as insensitive, exclusionary, or offensive to particular social, ethnic, or cultural groups.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • His speech was criticized for its blatant political incorrectness. (His speech was criticized for its clear use of expressions that marginalized certain groups.)
  • The comedian's routine relies heavily on political incorrectness for shock value. (The comedian's act depends on using language that insults socially disadvantaged groups to surprise the audience.)
  • Some view the term as a celebration of free speech, while others see it as a defense of harmful political incorrectness. (Some people interpret the term as supporting free expression, while others interpret it as justifying the use of insulting language against marginalized groups.)

Advanced Usage

• "a bastion of political incorrectness": used to describe a person, institution, or environment known for consistently disregarding norms of sensitive language.
  • The old-fashioned club was considered a bastion of political incorrectness.
• "willful political incorrectness": describes a deliberate, often provocative, choice to use non-conforming language.
  • The writer was known for his willful political incorrectness.

Variants and Related Words

• Politically Incorrect (adjective): Not conforming to a body of liberal or progressive opinion, especially on social matters.
  • That is a politically incorrect joke.
• Political Incorrectitude (noun, rare/humorous): A humorous or formal synonym for political incorrectness.

Synonyms

• Insensitivity: Lack of concern for others' feelings, especially regarding social issues.
• Impropriety: Behavior or language that is not conforming to accepted standards.

Antonyms

• Political Correctness: The avoidance of forms of expression or action that are perceived to exclude, marginalize, or insult groups of people who are socially disadvantaged or discriminated against.
• Sensitivity: Careful consideration and avoidance of offense toward others' feelings, especially regarding social identity.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "a slip into political incorrectness": refers to an accidental or unintentional use of non-conforming language.
  • The veteran news anchor made a surprising slip into political incorrectness during the broadcast.
• "to be accused of political incorrectness": a common phrase describing the charge leveled against a statement or action.
  • The policy was immediately accused of political incorrectness by advocacy groups.

Noun

1. the use of expressions or actions that can be perceived to exclude or marginalize or insult groups who are socially disadvantaged or discriminated against