Meaning & Definition of Criticize in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: To indicate the faults of someone or something in a disapproving way.

  Example Sentence: The teacher criticized the student's essay for lack of coherence.

• Definition: To form and express a judgment of someone or something.

  Example Sentence: Many critics criticize the film for its weak plot.

• Definition: To suggest improvements or changes.

  Example Sentence: He criticized the policy, suggesting it needed to be more inclusive.

• Definition: To examine or analyze something critically.

  Example Sentence: The philosopher criticized the argument's underlying assumptions.

• Definition: To point out issues or deficiencies.

  Example Sentence: She criticized the report for its lack of data.

Etymology

Origin: From the Greek 'kritikos', meaning 'able to judge'.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• to criticize someone to their face: To express disapproval directly to the person involved.
• constructive criticism: Feedback intended to help someone improve.
• fair criticism: Disapproval that is deemed reasonable and justified.

Translations

• Spanish: criticar

• French: critiquer

• German: kritisieren

• Russian: критиковать

Related Words

• critic: A person who expresses an unfavorable opinion.

• critique: A detailed analysis and assessment of something.

• criticism: The expression of disapproval of someone or something based on perceived faults or mistakes.

Slang Meanings of criticize

• Meaning: Throw shade

  Example Sentence: She really threw shade at his outfit during the meeting.

• Meaning: Call out

  Example Sentence: He called out her mistakes in front of everyone.

• Meaning: Roast

  Example Sentence: They roasted him for his terrible cooking.

• Meaning: Dig

  Example Sentence: That comment was a bit of a dig at her parenting.

• Meaning: Shade

  Example Sentence: He threw some shade when he mentioned her past failures.