Take the Political Correctness Test: Quiz Yourself

Study Notes

Political Correctness

Political correctness refers to language, policies, or measures aimed at avoiding offense or harm to specific groups in society.

Examples of Politically Correct Terms

Instead of "cheating", use "academic dishonesty" to describe dishonest behavior in an academic setting.
"Aesthetically challenged" is a politically correct term used to describe someone who is considered unattractive or ugly.
"Black" is preferred over "negra" when referring to people of African descent.
"Comb-free" is a euphemism for baldness or hair loss.
"Differently abled" is a politically correct term used to describe individuals with disabilities.
"Drug dependent" is a more sensitive term for someone struggling with drug addiction.
A "dysfunctional family" is a euphemism for a broken home or family with social or emotional problems.
"Economically marginalized" is a term used to describe individuals or groups struggling financially.
"Elderly" or "senior" is preferred over "old" when referring to older adults.
"Ethnically disoriented" is a term used to describe someone who is dishonest or unethical.
"Hearing impaired" is a more sensitive term for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
"Informal settlers" is a euphemism for squatters or people living in informal housing.
"Intellectual disability" and "intellectual development disorder" are preferred terms over "mental retardation".
"Intellectually impaired" is a politically correct term used to describe someone who is considered stupid or unintelligent.
"Little people" is a term used to describe individuals with dwarfism.
"Morally challenged" is a euphemism for someone who is dishonest or untrustworthy.
"Nondiscretionary fragrance" is a humorous term used to describe body odor.
"Outdoor urban" is a euphemism for homelessness.
"People of mass" is a term used to describe individuals who are overweight or obese.
"Rape survivor" is a more empowering term for someone who has experienced sexual assault.
"Sexually dysfunctional" is a term used to describe someone who is considered perverted or sexually deviant.
"Socially misaligned" is a euphemism for someone who is considered a psychopath.
"Technologically challenged" is a humorous term used to describe someone who is computer illiterate.
"Vertically challenged" is a euphemism for someone who is short or of short stature.
"Visually challenged" is a term used to describe individuals who are blind or have low vision.