Critically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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critically
[ˈkrɪtɪkli ]
Definitions
in a critical manner
In a way that expresses disapproval or criticism; in a serious and carefully considered way.
Synonyms
analytically, judiciously, severely.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| critically |
Used when evaluating something in a detailed and thorough manner, often identifying strengths and weaknesses.
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| judiciously |
Used when making decisions or evaluations with good judgment and sense, often implying fairness and balance.
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| analytically |
Used when breaking down and examining components systematically or logically, often appealing to reasoning and data.
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| severely |
Used in situations involving strict or harsh evaluation, criticism, or punishment, often with a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- He looked at her critically, trying to find any flaws.
- She analyzed the situation critically before making a decision.
in terms of academic writing
In a way that involves careful evaluation and analysis of texts or arguments.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| critically |
Used when evaluating or judging something in a detailed and serious manner, often highlighting both good and bad aspects. This can sometimes carry a negative connotation if the emphasis is on fault-finding.
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| analytically |
Used when breaking down a complex topic into simpler parts to understand it better, often involving logical reasoning and detailed examination.
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| rigorously |
Used to describe an approach or method that is extremely thorough, accurate, and strict, often involving detailed standards and consistent procedure.
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Examples of usage
- The student approached the text critically, looking for deeper meanings.
- She wrote her essay critically, citing multiple sources for support.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In reviews, works are often examined critically to highlight strengths and weaknesses, helping readers choose what to read.
- Authors like Samuel Johnson and Virginia Woolf contributed to critical essays that shaped literary criticism as a field.
Psychology
- Critical thinking skills are essential for problem-solving and decision-making, enabling individuals to analyze information objectively.
- Those who practice critical thinking are often better at distinct reasoning, resulting in improved academic performance.
Education
- In modern classrooms, teachers encourage students to think critically, fostering skills that go beyond simply memorizing facts.
- Critical discussions allow students to explore diverse viewpoints and develop deeper understanding of topics.
Pop Culture
- Movies and music are often critiqued critically in media reviews, influencing public opinion and trends.
- In contemporary society, social media platforms have given rise to 'critical influencers' who analyze everything from beauty ideals to political issues.
Origin of 'critically'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'critically' comes from the Greek word 'kritikos,' meaning 'able to discern or judge.'
- It evolved in Middle English from the term 'critical,' which originally referred to the process of judgment or decision making.
The word 'critically' is derived from the adjective 'critical', which comes from the Latin word 'criticus', meaning 'able to discern' or 'pertaining to criticism'. The adverb form 'critically' has been in use since the 17th century, originally meaning 'in a critical manner'. Over time, its usage has expanded to include contexts related to careful evaluation, analysis, and examination.
See also: critical, criticism, criticizable, criticize, criticizing, critics.