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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.


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.

The Manic Street Preachers' Critical Thinking entered at number two, making it their 15th top 10 album.

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2025

The study is part of a larger report from the USC Center for Generative AI and Society titled "Critical Thinking and Ethics in the Age of Generative AI in Education."

From Science Daily • Feb. 7, 2024

See Reasoning Strategies: Improving Critical Thinking for more about using these reasoning and organizational strategies in your writing.

From Textbooks • Dec. 21, 2021

Critical Thinking John Leguizamo directed and stars in this 2020 biographical drama inspired by the true story of the Miami Jackson High School chess club, which became the first inner-city team to win the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 1, 2021

Critical Thinking and Reasoning: a handbook for Teachers.

From Sequential Problem Solving A Student Handbook with Checklists for Successful Critical Thinking by Lozo, Fredric

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