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.

See Examples For:

critical thinking

"AI is killing the 'pyramid' approach…progression is no longer based on your knowledge bank. Now it's more based on your critical thinking and understanding of the processes," says Clinton.

From BBC ● Nov. 4, 2026

Meanwhile Mr. Tsvok and his team are thinking about how to encourage, not curb, critical thinking.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 20, 2026

The teacher says the lessons will be tailored to "different ages and stages" with younger pupils needing to be focused on foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills before moving on to practical uses of AI.

From BBC ● Oct. 5, 2026

One researcher investigating AI’s effects on children has expressed concerns of “cognitive stunting” — critical thinking skills prohibited from developing, just as physical growth can be stymied by malnutrition.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 14, 2026

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

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan

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