incorrectly
UK[ˌɪnkəˈrektli]US[ˌɪnkəˈrektli]
adv
in a way that is not accurate, true, or right
Morpheme Breakdown
in
correct
ly
in
not
correct
right
ly
in the manner of
Etymology
the word "incorrectly" is built upon the core adjective "correct," which originates from the latin verb corrigere, meaning "to make straight" or "to set right." the latin prefix in-, meaning "not," is attached to negate this sense, forming "incorrect," which describes something that is not right or accurate. finally, the old english adverbial suffix -ly is appended, converting the adjective into an adverb that describes the manner of an action being performed in a wrong or erroneous way. this construction elegantly demonstrates the layering of latin negation and germanic grammar to create a precise modern english term.
Analysis
Structure: in (not) + correct (right) + ly (in the manner of)
- in: a latin prefix meaning "not".
- correct: from latin correctus, the past participle of corrigere meaning "to make straight, set right".
- ly: an old english suffix used to form adverbs from adjectives, meaning "in the manner of".
Examples
the student answered the question incorrectly.
the device was installed incorrectly, causing it to malfunction.
he was incorrectly identified as the suspect in the case.