Judgmentally - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

used in a critical or disapproving manner

In a judgmental manner; tending to judge people and situations critically or disapprovingly.

Synonyms

critically, disapprovingly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
judgmentally	Used when someone is forming an opinion about someone or something in a harsh or unfair way. She looked at his outfit judgmentally, thinking it was too casual for the event. He spoke judgmentally about their decision to move to the city.
critically	Applied when someone is evaluating or analyzing something or someone in a detailed and thoughtful way. Can be both positive and negative depending on the tone and intention. The professor critically assessed the student's research paper. She watched the performance critically, noting both strengths and areas for improvement.
disapprovingly	Used when someone shows that they do not approve of something or someone, often expressed through looks or comments. This word generally carries a negative connotation. He shook his head disapprovingly when he saw the mess. Her mother glanced disapprovingly at her short dress.

Word

Description / Examples

judgmentally

Used when someone is forming an opinion about someone or something in a harsh or unfair way.

She looked at his outfit judgmentally, thinking it was too casual for the event.
He spoke judgmentally about their decision to move to the city.

critically

Applied when someone is evaluating or analyzing something or someone in a detailed and thoughtful way. Can be both positive and negative depending on the tone and intention.

The professor critically assessed the student's research paper.
She watched the performance critically, noting both strengths and areas for improvement.

disapprovingly

Used when someone shows that they do not approve of something or someone, often expressed through looks or comments. This word generally carries a negative connotation.

He shook his head disapprovingly when he saw the mess.
Her mother glanced disapprovingly at her short dress.

Examples of usage

She looked at him judgmentally, as if she disapproved of his actions.
He spoke judgmentally about their decision, clearly showing his disapproval.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Being judgmental can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts in relationships, as it often prevents genuine connection.
Studies show that people tend to judge others based on their own insecurities, projecting their feelings onto those they evaluate.
Cognitive biases, such as the fundamental attribution error, often result in individuals being judgmental without considering situational factors that affect behavior.

Pop Culture

The phrase 'judgmental friends' is often used in social media to describe people who constantly criticize or look down on others' choices.
In movies and TV shows, characters who are overly judgmental are frequently portrayed in a negative light, often leading to their downfall.
Songs often explore themes of judgment, highlighting how societal pressures affect personal identity and self-acceptance.

Literature

Classic literature frequently addresses themes of judgment, like in 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen, where characters confront their biases and misconceptions.
In modern literature, authors delve into the impact of social judgment on self-esteem and mental health, portraying characters who struggle with societal pressures.
The exploration of judgment can serve as a mirror to society, prompting readers to reflect on their own attitudes and biases.

Sociology

Sociologists study the effects of judgmental behavior on social dynamics, emphasizing how it can reinforce stereotypes and create social divisions.
Cultural norms often dictate what is considered judgmental; in some cultures, being direct is accepted, while in others, it is frowned upon.
Social media has amplified judgmental attitudes, creating environments where people often critique others without full context or understanding.

Origin of 'judgmentally'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the root 'judge', which means to form an opinion about something or someone.
It combines 'judgment' with the adverbial suffix '-ally', used in many English words to express a manner of doing something.
The term has evolved over centuries, with similar forms found in Old French and Latin, showing its long history in human interaction.

The adverb 'judgmentally' is derived from the word 'judgmental', which has been in use since the mid-19th century. The term 'judgmental' originates from the word 'judgment', which has roots in Middle English and Old French. The concept of being judgmental has been a part of human behavior for centuries, as people have always formed opinions and made critical assessments of others and situations.

Judgmentally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations