critical thinking
Americannoun
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.
Benjamin Barker, principal at King's Leadership Academy in Liverpool, says he wants his students to learn how to use tools safely, while also developing their critical thinking skills.
From BBC ● Sep. 22, 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 others are critical thinking, agility, business acumen, people skills and professional demeanor.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 24, 2026
One 2025 MIT study went viral for its finding that students using generative AI to write essays displayed less critical thinking capability.
From Barron's ● Jul. 15, 2026
“I’m signing up for chess club. My mom’s making me. She says it’s important for critical thinking or something.”
From "Amina's Song" by Hena Khan
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
