Incorrigibly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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incorrigibly

[ษชnหˆkษ”หrษชdส’ษ™bli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

behavioral traits

The term 'incorrigibly' is used to describe a person or behavior that cannot be corrected, reformed, or improved. It is often associated with persistent misconduct or ingrained habits that are resistant to change. Individuals labeled as incorrigible may repeatedly fail to adhere to rules or follow reasonable guidelines due to their deep-rooted tendencies. This expression is commonly used in both informal contexts to portray stubbornness or delinquency, and formal discussions to characterize unmanageable situations.

Synonyms

hopeless, incurable, irredeemable, unchangeable.

Examples of usage

  • He was incorrigibly late to every meeting.
  • Despite several interventions, she remained incorrigibly rebellious.
  • The dog was incorrigibly disobedient, ignoring all commands.
  • Her incorrigibly optimistic attitude often brightened our days.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • In psychological contexts, being labeled as 'incorrigible' can carry a stigma, often implying that someone wonโ€™t ever change their problematic behavior.
  • Researchers suggest that behavior patterns viewed as incorrigible may stem from deeply ingrained personal histories or sociocultural influences.
  • The idea of being incorrigible can affect how one perceives hope and potential for change in both oneself and others.

Literature

  • Many classic novels feature incorrigible characters to explore themes of redemption, showcasing their struggles against societal norms.
  • Charles Dickens's character McFarlane in 'David Copperfield' is often seen as incorrigibly mischievous, illustrating the challenges of reforming bad behavior in narrative fashion.
  • Writers frequently use incorrigible traits to create conflict, drawing readers into a character's journey of potential transformation, or lack thereof.

Pop Culture

  • The term is often connected to characters in movies or shows depicted as hopelessly rebellious, like the 'bad boy' archetype.
  • Songs and media occasionally portray love for someone incorrigible, celebrating the idea that their flaws are what make them lovable.
  • Catchphrases like 'You can't change him/her' reflect the society's understanding of those viewed as incorrigible in romantic contexts.

Origin of 'incorrigibly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'incorrigibilis', where 'in-' means 'not' and 'corrigere' means 'to correct'.
  • It has been used in English since the early 16th century, showing how long people have described unchangeable behavior.
  • The prefix 'in-' often negates the word it precedes, making 'incorrigible' imply a total inability to reform or fix.

The word 'incorrigibly' derives from the Latin word 'incorrigibilis', which translates to 'not able to be corrected or reformed'. This Latin term combines 'in-', meaning 'not', with 'corrigere', which means 'to correct' or 'to straighten'. The earliest use of 'incorrigible' in English dates back to the mid-15th century, reflecting similar meanings associated with unreformable behavior or irredeemable traits. The adverbial form 'incorrigibly' was established in English by the early 17th century, further emphasizing the idea of persisting in wrong behavior or attitudes. Over time, 'incorrigibly' has been used across a variety of contexts, including literature and psychology, to accentuate the stubborn nature of certain behaviors that seem impervious to improvement or change.