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Synonyms

corrective

American  
[kuh-rek-tiv] / kəˈrɛk tɪv /

adjective

  1. tending to correct or rectify; remedial.

    corrective exercises.


noun

  1. a means of correcting; corrective agent.

corrective British  
/ kəˈrɛktɪv /

adjective

  1. tending or intended to correct

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

noun

  1. something that tends or is intended to correct

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of corrective

1525–35; (< Anglo-French ) < Medieval Latin corrēctīvus. See correct, -ive

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

And this is a really useful corrective to the notion that every single time there’s smoke, there’s fire.

From Slate • May 22, 2026

The Social Security Administration said it is taking corrective action as appropriate to address the problems.

From MarketWatch • May 1, 2026

Haymon contends the judge misused her power and that the State Bar imposed no corrective measures following a review.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

“A confirmed break below support opens downside potential toward the $4,400 level and deeper corrective territory.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026

On his left foot he wore a corrective shoe and he walked with a slight limp.

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy

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