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critical thinking

American

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

noun

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

The questions are intended to develop your critical thinking.

Etymology

Origin of critical thinking

First recorded in 1810–15

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.

In order to AI-proof your career, apply to jobs where critical thinking and innovation are more important than technical skills.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 15, 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

Detecting and defending against cyber-hacking is perhaps harder, and requires both expertise and critical thinking.

From Salon • Feb. 28, 2026

The left hemisphere presides over rational, analytical and critical thinking.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023