self-critical

adjective

self-crit·​i·​cal ˌself-ˈkri-ti-kəl How to pronounce self-critical (audio)
: inclined to find fault with oneself : critical of oneself
a self-critical perfectionist
… helping patients identify and challenge pessimistic or self-critical thoughts that cause or perpetuate depression.Mary A. Whooley

Examples of self-critical in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Self-compassion can be cultivated over time, by questioning self-critical narratives and affirming our very human emotional experiences. Mark Travers, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2024 This can involve committing to self-care practices and challenging self-critical thoughts about not being worthy of affection. Mark Travers, Forbes, 18 Feb. 2024 This drinking part may also come into contact with a self-critical or self-loathing part that wants to control the drinking. Laura Newberry, Los Angeles Times, 19 Dec. 2023 Mirren is self-critical in the new ad campaign, too, which will also feature cameos from Idris Elba and Michael Cera in separate commercials. Nigel Smith, Peoplemag, 15 Dec. 2023 Honesty is non-negotiable for Humberstone, whose songs verge on the deeply personal and often self-critical. Ellise Shafer, Variety, 13 Oct. 2023 According to the principles of responsible research and innovation, science policy should be anticipatory and self-critical, actively seek other viewpoints, and respond to public values. Gregory E. Kaebnick, STAT, 15 Sep. 2023 There are few signs today of such self-critical reflection. Ian Johnson, Foreign Affairs, 22 Aug. 2023 Bottling everything up, however, won’t do you any favors, because self-critical thoughts and behaviors thrive in the shadows, Dr. Nagata says. Jenna Ryu, SELF, 11 Aug. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'self-critical.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-critical was in 1841

Dictionary Entries Near self-critical

Cite this Entry

“Self-critical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-critical. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

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