Critical: meaning, definitions and examples

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critical

[ ˈkrɪtɪk(ə)l ]

^{Context #1}

thinking

expressing adverse or disapproving comments or judgments. Expressing or involving an analysis of the merits and faults of a work of literature, music, or art.

Synonyms

disapproving, fault-finding, judgmental

Examples of usage

critical remarks
critical analysis of a novel

^{Context #2}

important

having a decisive or crucial importance in the success or failure of something. Involving or exercising careful judgment or judicious evaluation.

Synonyms

crucial, key, vital

Examples of usage

a critical moment
critical decision-making

Translations

Translations of the word "critical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 crítico

🇮🇳 महत्वपूर्ण

🇩🇪 kritisch

🇮🇩 kritis

🇺🇦 критичний

🇵🇱 krytyczny

🇯🇵 重要な

🇫🇷 critique

🇪🇸 crítico

🇹🇷 kritik

🇰🇷 중요한

🇸🇦 حرج

🇨🇿 kritický

🇸🇰 kritický

🇨🇳 关键的

🇸🇮 kritičen

🇮🇸 gagnrýninn

🇰🇿 сыншыл

🇬🇪 კრიტიკული

🇦🇿 tənqidi

🇲🇽 crítico

Word origin

The word 'critical' originated from the Middle English word 'critic' and the Old French word 'crite', both of which ultimately derive from the Latin word 'criticus', meaning 'able to discern or judge'. The modern usage of 'critical' dates back to the 16th century, evolving from the sense of 'involving or exercising careful judgment' to its current meanings of 'expressing adverse comments' and 'having crucial importance'.