Definition

Adjective: 1. Not conforming to language or behavior considered sensitive or appropriate regarding social equity: Describes statements, actions, or attitudes that fail to avoid expressions or actions perceived as offensive to groups of people based on gender, race, ethnicity, disability, or other social identities. It implies a disregard for contemporary norms of inclusive and non-discriminatory language and behavior.

Usage

The term is used to label language, ideas, or behavior that is perceived as insensitive, stereotypical, or offensive according to prevailing social and political norms. It often carries a critical or disapproving tone.

Examples

• His politically incorrect joke about a national stereotype caused widespread outrage.
• The columnist was known for her deliberately politically incorrect opinions on cultural trends.
• Using that outdated term is now considered politically incorrect.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used reflexively or ironically by individuals to describe their own unfiltered statements, sometimes to preempt criticism or to signal a rejection of perceived constraints on speech.
  • "I know this is politically incorrect to say, but I found the old system more efficient."
• It can function as a compound modifier before a noun (e.g., politically incorrect humor, a politically incorrect view).

Variants and Related Words

• Political Incorrectness (noun): The quality or state of being politically incorrect.
  • The book was criticized for its political incorrectness.

Synonyms

• Insensitive
• Offensive
• Indelicate
• Un-PC (informal abbreviation)

Antonyms

• Politically correct
• Sensitive
• Inclusive
• Appropriate

Related Idioms/Phrases

• To be a politically incorrect figure: To be a person known for regularly expressing views that defy contemporary norms of sensitivity.
  • The comedian built his career on being a politically incorrect figure.

Adjective

1. exhibiting political incorrectness