criticize
criticize Lexical Profile
criticize Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To indicate the faults, shortcomings, or errors of someone or something in a disapproving way.
"Several economists began to criticize the administration's fiscal policy for overlooking long-term inflation risks."
To form and express a reasoned judgment or analytical evaluation of the merits and faults of a literary, artistic, or scholarly work.
"In the graduate seminar, students learn how to criticize historical texts using primary archival evidence."
Word Nuance & Usage
Often distinguished from 'critique', which refers specifically to a detailed, analytical evaluation, whereas 'criticize' more commonly implies finding fault or expressing disapproval.
• Rhymes for criticize
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in the early 17th century from the noun 'critic' plus the verbal suffix '-ize', ultimately tracing back to the Ancient Greek 'kritikos' (able to discern or judge), from 'krinein' (to separate or decide).