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.

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Etymology

Origin of critical thinking

First recorded in 1810–15

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

critical thinking

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

This is a good opportunity to demonstrate your critical thinking skills, Lewis noted.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 9, 2026

They are moving away from entry-level tech or statistical analysis and focusing on critical thinking, communication, and human-centric fields, it says.

From BBC ● May 18, 2026

Accounting firms are working to change how traditional auditing work is done, with the aim of taking away younger professionals’ rote work and allowing them more critical thinking.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 10, 2026

Here is what that means—ideologues are narrow-minded people, incapable of independent thought and critical thinking.

From "Towers Falling" by Jewell Parker Rhodes