plural criticisms
1
: the act of expressing disapproval and of noting the problems or faults of a person or thing : the act of criticizing someone or something
There was much public criticism directed/leveled at the senator.
The new law attracted/drew widespread criticism. [=many people criticized the new law]
In this job you need to be able to take/face/accept criticism.
I asked my sister for some constructive criticism of my essay before I tried to revise it.
2
: a remark or comment that expresses disapproval of someone or something
I had one minor criticism about her design.
3
: the activity of making careful judgments about the good and bad qualities of books, movies, etc.
literary criticism
Cite this Entry
“Criticism.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/criticism. Accessed 18 Apr. 2026.
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