Definition

Adjective: 1. Conforming to a belief that language and practices should avoid offending or disadvantaging particular groups in society: Exhibiting or characterized by political correctness; intentionally using language or behaving in a way that is seen to avoid offense or social disadvantage to groups perceived as marginalized, especially regarding race, gender, sexuality, or disability.

Usage and Examples

• As an adjective before a noun:
  • It is considered politically correct to use the term "flight attendant" instead of "stewardess."
  • The company issued a politically correct statement regarding the diversity initiative.
• As a predicate adjective (after a linking verb like 'is', 'seems', 'becomes'):
  • His remarks were carefully crafted to be politically correct.
  • Some people feel pressured to always sound politically correct in public.

Advanced Usage and Nuance

• The term is often used descriptively but can also carry a critical or sarcastic connotation, implying that the language or action is overly cautious, insincere, or enforced by social pressure rather than genuine concern.
  • He made a politically correct but ultimately meaningless apology.
• The concept is dynamic and changes over time as social norms evolve. What is considered politically correct in one era may be standard or incorrect in another.

Variants and Related Words

• Political Correctness (noun): The underlying principle or practice of avoiding language or behavior that can be seen as excluding, marginalizing, or insulting groups of people.
  • The debate over political correctness continues on university campuses.
• Politically Incorrect (adjective): The direct opposite; language or actions that do not conform to these norms, often deliberately.
  • The comedian is known for his politically incorrect humor.

Synonyms

• Socially sensitive
• Culturally sensitive
• Inclusive (in language)
• Non-discriminatory

Antonyms

• Politically incorrect
• Insensitive
• Offensive
• Discriminatory

Idioms and Common Phrases

• To be PC (abbreviation): A common, informal abbreviation for "politically correct."
  • You have to be so PC these days in your emails.
• PC culture: A term, often used critically, to describe a social environment where political correctness is emphasized.
  • Some argue that PC culture stifles free speech.

Adjective

1. exhibiting political correctness