criticize

especially British, crit·i·cise

[krit-uh-sahyz]

verb (used with object)

criticized, criticizing 

1. to censure or find fault with.

   Synonyms: blame, condemn

2. to judge or discuss the merits and faults of.

   to criticize three novels in one review.

   Synonyms: evaluate, appraise

verb (used without object)

criticized, criticizing 

1. to find fault; judge unfavorably or harshly.

2. to make judgments as to merits and faults.

criticize

/ ˈkrɪtɪˌsaɪz /

verb

1. to judge (something) with disapproval; censure

2. to evaluate or analyse (something)

Other Word Forms

• criticizer noun
• criticizable adjective
• criticizingly adverb
• noncriticizing adjective
• overcriticize verb
• precriticize verb (used with object)
• recriticize verb (used with object)
• uncriticizable adjective
• uncriticizably adverb
• uncriticized adjective
• uncriticizing adjective
• uncriticizingly adverb
• well-criticized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of criticize¹

First recorded in 1640–50; critic + -ize

Example Sentences

In a second interview with Fox News, Hassett shifted blame to the BLS, criticizing their “bad response rates” on job number revisions.

From Salon

Many ordinary Indonesians criticize the government for primarily serving the interests of the wealthy elite even as youth unemployment soars and wages stagnate.

From Los Angeles Times

But three other Republicans, including Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, who was key in advancing Kennedy’s nomination, joined Democrats in criticizing Kennedy’s actions, mostly pertaining to vaccine policy changes.

From Los Angeles Times

The judges also criticized the court for not addressing threats of violence against judges, which have been steadily increasing.

From Salon

After fashion reporters criticized one of his collections, he banned the press from his show in 1982.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• blame 
• blast 
• castigate 
• censure 
• chastise 
• chide 
• condemn 
• denounce 
• excoriate 
• reprimand