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

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

Our children or their children can, or are trying, but how do we get them to have the kind of critical thinking skills that are necessary to think through those problems in this age?

From Slate • Mar. 22, 2026

"Workers also need support to build judgement, critical thinking, physical skills, leadership and the confidence to use these tools safely."

From BBC • Jan. 28, 2026

I try to make it seem like I’m also pondering something, even though I’ve hit my limit of critical thinking for the day.

From "Kwame Crashes the Underworld" by Craig Kofi Farmer