textual criticism
noun
1
: the study of a literary work that aims to establish the original text
2
: a critical study of literature emphasizing a close reading and analysis of the text
Examples of textual criticism in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Ophelia has been, for centuries, the person in the text most considered for reinterpretations and textual criticism.
—
Julie Muncy, WIRED, 8 Aug. 2019
First, the textual criticism of the Bible, originating in Germany and spreading throughout the West, undermined the Biblical foundation of Western Christianity.
—Garland Tucker, National Review, 21 Oct. 2017
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Julie Muncy, WIRED, 8 Aug. 2019
First, the textual criticism of the Bible, originating in Germany and spreading throughout the West, undermined the Biblical foundation of Western Christianity.
—Garland Tucker, National Review, 21 Oct. 2017
Cite this Entry
“Textual criticism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/textual%20criticism. Accessed 24 May. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share