critical Definition
- 1expressing adverse or disapproving comments or judgments
- 2having a decisive or crucial importance in the success, failure, or existence of something
- 3relating to the analysis or evaluation of something
Using critical: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "critical" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The report was highly critical of the government's handling of the crisis.
Example
It is critical that we finish this project on time.
Example
The critical analysis of the data revealed some interesting trends.
critical Synonyms and Antonyms
Antonyms for critical
- complimentary
- praising
- unimportant
Idioms Using critical
be critical of
to express disapproval or criticism of someone or something
Example
He is always critical of my work, but never offers any constructive feedback.
walk a critical tightrope
to be in a difficult situation where one must balance opposing forces or interests
Example
As a mediator, she had to walk a critical tightrope between the two parties.
in critical condition
in a serious or unstable medical state
Example
The patient was rushed to the hospital and is currently in critical condition.
Phrases with critical
critical thinking
the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment
Example
The course emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills.
critical mass
the minimum amount of something required to start or maintain a venture
Example
We need to reach a critical mass of users before we can launch the product.
critical path
the sequence of stages determining the minimum time needed for an operation
Example
Identifying the critical path is essential for completing the project on time.
Origins of critical
from Greek 'kritikos', meaning 'able to judge'
Summary: critical in Brief
The term 'critical' [ˈkrɪtɪkl] has multiple meanings, including expressing disapproval or judgment, having crucial importance, and relating to analysis or evaluation. It can be used in phrases like 'critical thinking,' emphasizing objective analysis, and idioms like 'be critical of,' indicating disapproval. 'Critical' is often used in formal contexts, such as 'It is critical that we finish this project on time.'
