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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.

"Critical thinking is just as important as access to knowledge. That's what makes you a free and emancipated individual," he told the crowd of about 1,000 students.

From Reuters • Apr. 7, 2023

Critical thinking and media literacy have been part of the curriculum for a very long time.

From BBC • Oct. 12, 2022

Critical thinking really comes down to learning to infer with accuracy and selecting your expert opinions wisely.

From Salon • Oct. 2, 2022

Critical thinking would be a solution, but we seem to be in short supply.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 4, 2022

Critical thinking: Ability to analyze, make inferences, evaluate, synthesize, and draw conclusions on the basis of researched information.

From Textbooks • Dec. 21, 2021

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