criticize
crit·i·cize
verb \ˈkri-tə-ˌsīz\crit·i·cizedcrit·i·ciz·ing
Definition of CRITICIZE
intransitive verb
: to act as a critic
transitive verb
1
: to consider the merits and demerits of and judge accordingly : evaluate
2
: to find fault with : point out the faults of
— crit·i·ciz·able \-ˌsī-zə-bəl\ adjective
— crit·i·ciz·er noun
Examples of CRITICIZE
- His boss criticized him for his sloppy work habits.
- The judge was widely criticized for his verdict.
- The editor criticized the author's work as trite.
- It seems as though all he ever does is criticize.
First Known Use of CRITICIZE
1643
Related to CRITICIZE
Synonym Discussion of CRITICIZE
criticize, reprehend, censure, reprobate, condemn, denounce mean to find fault with openly. criticize implies finding fault especially with methods or policies or intentions <criticized the police for using violence>. reprehend implies both criticism and severe rebuking <reprehends the self-centeredness of today's students>. censure carries a strong suggestion of authority and of reprimanding <a Senator formally censured by his peers>. reprobate implies strong disapproval or firm refusal to sanction <reprobated his son's unconventional lifestyle>. condemn usually suggests an unqualified and final unfavorable judgment <condemned the government's racial policies>. denounce adds to condemn the implication of a public declaration <a pastoral letter denouncing abortion>.
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