criticize
C1Neutral to Formal
Definition
Meaning
To indicate or express the faults of someone or something in a disapproving way; to judge or assess with disapproval.
To evaluate or analyze something, especially a work of art or literature, in detail, which may involve both positive and negative assessments, though the negative sense is dominant in everyday use.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
In modern usage, the verb often carries a negative connotation of finding fault, though its technical meaning in arts/literature (criticism) can be neutral or analytical. It is a 'stronger' word than 'comment on' or 'review' in everyday contexts.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The spelling. British English predominantly uses 'criticise' (with an 's'), while American English uses 'criticize' (with a 'z'). The pronunciation is the same.
Connotations
Identical in connotation. In both varieties, it is perceived as a direct, often negative action.
Frequency
Equally frequent and standard in both varieties, with the respective spelling conventions firmly applied.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] criticize [Object] for [Doing Something][Subject] criticize [Object] as [Adjective/Noun Phrase][Subject] criticize [Object] (direct object)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Don't criticize what you can't understand.”
- “To criticize is easier than to create.”
- “He who criticizes builds no houses.”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
The board may criticize the CEO for poor quarterly results.
Academic
The scholar sought to criticize the prevailing theoretical framework.
Everyday
My parents always criticize the way I dress.
Technical
In code review, it's important to criticize the logic, not the person.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The report was quick to criticise the lack of funding.
- It's unfair to constantly criticise her efforts.
American English
- The editorial criticized the senator's voting record.
- He tends to criticize before he has all the facts.
adverb
British English
- He looked at the proposal critically.
- She spoke critically of the new policy.
American English
- He reviewed the data critically.
- The article was critically acclaimed.
adjective
British English
- He was in a critical condition after the accident.
- This is a critical moment for the team.
American English
- She has a critical role in the project.
- The review was highly critical of the film's pacing.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- My teacher never criticizes me in front of the class.
- It's not nice to criticize your friends.
- The newspaper article criticized the mayor's new plan.
- He criticized the film for being too long and boring.
- The opposition party has been heavily criticized for its lack of a coherent economic policy.
- While I appreciate your feedback, I feel you are criticizing my approach without fully understanding the constraints.
- The biography has been criticized by scholars for its speculative interpretation of the subject's private correspondence.
- One could justifiably criticize the legislation for failing to address the root causes of the issue.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a CRITIC with sharp EYES (ize) looking for faults.
Conceptual Metaphor
CRITICISM IS A PHYSICAL ATTACK (e.g., 'His critique was a real blow.', 'She launched into a criticism.')
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct translation of 'критиковать' for mild comments; 'criticize' is stronger. Use 'comment on' or 'mention' for neutral observations.
- The noun 'criticism' in English is often negative, unlike the potentially neutral 'критика'.
- Confusing 'criticize' with 'complain'. You criticize a thing/person; you complain *about* a situation.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect: 'She criticized on my work.' Correct: 'She criticized my work.'
- Incorrect: 'I criticize him to be lazy.' Correct: 'I criticize him for being lazy.'
- Spelling: Using 'criticise' in American English or 'criticize' in formal British English (though 'criticise' is preferred).
Practice
Quiz
In which sentence is the word 'criticize' used correctly?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In everyday language, yes, it predominantly means to express disapproval. In academic or artistic contexts (e.g., 'literary criticism'), it can mean to analyze and evaluate, which may include positive comments, but the negative sense is primary for most users.
'Criticize' specifically implies finding faults or expressing disapproval. 'Judge' is broader; it means to form an opinion or conclusion, which can be positive, negative, or neutral (e.g., 'judge a competition').
It is neutral-to-formal. In very casual conversation, people might use phrases like 'pick on', 'find fault with', or simply 'be negative about'. 'Criticize' is appropriate in most written and spoken contexts.
When stating the reason for criticism, use 'for' (criticize someone for doing something). No preposition is used for the direct object of criticism (criticize a plan). The preposition 'as' can be used to label the object (criticize a statement as irresponsible).
Collections
Part of a collection
Media and Communication
B1 · 50 words · Language for discussing media and communication.