korrektsusest

Korrektsusest, or korrektsus in Estonian, denotes the state or quality of being correct, proper, or accurate according to norms, rules, or truth. The term is used across disciplines to describe how well statements, representations, or conduct meet agreed standards. In a linguistic sense, korrektsus refers to correct language usage—grammar, spelling, punctuation, and appropriate word forms according to standard Estonian norms. In a broader sense it can also refer to factual accuracy in information, measurements, calculations, and references, as well as propriety in behavior and presentation.

The normative basis for korrektsus in language is provided by language authorities and reference works, such as the Eesti Keele Instituut and the Eesti õigekeelsussõnaraamat. These sources publish rules for orthography, punctuation, morphology, and style, helping writers and editors to achieve clarity and consistency. However, korrektsus is highly context-dependent: what counts as correct in formal writing may differ from everyday speech, and online or cross-cultural contexts can bring additional norms and variances.

There is an ongoing discussion about korrektsus between prescriptive and descriptive approaches. Prescriptive norms aim to maintain standard forms for mutual intelligibility, while descriptive usage observes how language actually evolves and is used by speakers. Critics of strict prescriptivism warn that rigid rules can exclude speakers or suppress legitimate variation, whereas supporters argue that korrektsus supports precise communication, credibility, and accountability.

In practice, korrektsusest is a useful umbrella for evaluating correctness across language, information, and conduct. It relies on established standards when available, but also recognizes context, purpose, and audience as factors shaping what is considered correct.