Entry Word: critical

Function: adjective

Meaning: 1 given to making or expressing unfavorable judgments about things <adults tend to be critical of teenagersʼ taste in music and movies>

Synonyms captious, carping, caviling (or cavilling), faultfinding, hypercritical, overcritical

Related Words discerning, discriminating, judicious; demanding, exacting, fastidious, finicky, fussy, particular

Near Antonyms undiscerning

Antonyms uncritical

2 needing immediate attention <this problem isnʼt critical, so we can go home now and tend to it in the morning> — see acute 2
3 of the greatest possible importance <this is the critical exam that will largely determine your college career> — see crucial