critical thinking

American  

[krit-i-kuhl thing-king] / ˈkrɪt ɪ kəl ˈθɪŋ kɪŋ /

noun

1. disciplined thinking that is clear, rational, open-minded, and informed by evidence.

   The questions are intended to develop your critical thinking.

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Etymology

Origin of critical thinking

First recorded in 1810–15

Example Sentences

Accounting firms are working to change how traditional auditing work is done, with the aim of taking away younger professionals’ rote work and allowing them more critical thinking.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

But the user “isn’t stupid,” Adams explained — they know it’s a machine without “human needs and feelings” and can’t foster “the sense of human accountability” that is crucial to true critical thinking.

From Salon • Mar. 30, 2026

"Predictably, our children will develop deep critical thinking, and independent reasoning abilities."

From Barron's • Mar. 25, 2026

You’re right that the critical thinking part of it is really important.

From Slate • Mar. 22, 2026

Here is what that means—ideologues are narrow-minded people, incapable of independent thought and critical thinking.

From "Towers Falling" by Jewell Parker Rhodes