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Synonyms

criticize

American  
[krit-uh-sahyz] / ˈkrɪt əˌsaɪz /
especially British, criticise

verb (used with object)

criticized, criticizing
  1. to censure or find fault with.

    Synonyms:
    blame, condemn
  2. to judge or discuss the merits and faults of.

    to criticize three novels in one review.

    Synonyms:
    evaluate, appraise

verb (used without object)

criticized, criticizing
  1. to find fault; judge unfavorably or harshly.

  2. to make judgments as to merits and faults.

criticize British  
/ ˈkrɪtɪˌsaɪz /

verb

  1. to judge (something) with disapproval; censure

  2. to evaluate or analyse (something)

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • criticizable adjective
  • criticizer noun
  • criticizingly adverb
  • noncriticizing adjective
  • overcriticize verb
  • precriticize verb (used with object)
  • recriticize verb (used with object)
  • uncriticizable adjective
  • uncriticizably adverb
  • uncriticized adjective
  • uncriticizing adjective
  • uncriticizingly adverb
  • well-criticized adjective

Etymology

Origin of criticize

First recorded in 1640–50; critic + -ize

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Many investors will remember that Buffett has criticized derivatives, but few realize that Buffett also was a major force in the options market.

From Barron's

Wilson had publicly criticized the company, as well as CEO Calvin McDonald, for “killing innovation.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Even when people are trying to criticize ICE and and defend immigrant rights, they often do so in very conditional terms.

From Salon

While her leadership expanded the universe, fan reactions were mixed with some applauding her dedication to storytelling continuity, while others criticized narrative and character choices in recent projects.

From Salon

Advocates and educators criticized the deportation, saying it should not have occurred before those issues were reviewed.

From Salon