改正 (gǎi zhèng) is a verb meaning 'to correct' or 'to rectify' — specifically, to fix an error, mistake, or flaw. The character 改 (gǎi) means 'to change' or 'to alter', while 正 (zhèng) means 'correct', 'right', or 'proper'. Together, they form a compound verb emphasizing intentional, purposeful correction — not just any change, but one aimed at restoring accuracy or appropriateness. It’s commonly used in educational, professional, and personal improvement contexts.

This word often appears with objects like 错误 (cuòwù, 'mistake'), 习惯 (xíguàn, 'habit'), or 行为 (xíngwéi, 'behavior'), and frequently follows modal verbs (e.g., 应该改正, 'should correct') or imperatives (e.g., 请改正, 'please correct'). Unlike the more general 改变 (gǎibiàn, 'to change'), 改正 implies moral or factual responsibility — you’re fixing something that was objectively wrong or inappropriate.