Reading Theme:
Criticise: Definition, Usage & Examples Explained (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：point out faults (criticise)
criticise
/ˈkrɪtɪsaɪz/
v.
to say what is wrong with someone or something, in a way that shows you are unhappy with them or it.
point out faults
➕
/ˈpɔɪnt aʊt ˈfɔːlts/
v.
To express disapproval of someone or something by identifying their mistakes, shortcomings, or bad qualities.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Greek 'kritikos' (able to discern/judge) and Latin 'criticus'. The root 'krinein' means 'to decide, judge'.
💡 Mnemonic
Think of a 'cry' inside someone when you 'criticise' them, highlighting the potential emotional impact of pointing out faults.
📖 Example
My mother criticised me for forgetting to do my homework.
My mother pointed out my fault for forgetting to do my homework.
🔗 Collocations
criticise someone for something – to blame someone because of a particular action or quality
heavily criticise – to express strong disapproval
publicly criticise – to express disapproval in an open or public manner
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
praise (v.) – to express warm approval or admiration
compliment (v.) – to politely express admiration or approval
commend (v.) – to praise formally or officially
🌱 Derivatives
📖 Cultural Story
Evolving from ancient Greek 'kritikos', meaning 'a judge' or 'discerner', the term entered English via Latin and French. In Athenian society, a critic was someone who passed judgment, initially on literature and public affairs. Over time, the focus expanded to include any evaluative judgment of merit or fault.
Meaning 2：review and evaluate (criticise)
criticise
/ˈkrɪtɪsaɪz/
v.
to give your opinion about the good and bad parts of something, especially a piece of creative work like a book or film.
review and evaluate
➕
/rɪˈvjuː ænd ɪˈvæljueɪt/
v.
To analyze and give a considered judgment on the qualities and flaws of something, especially creative works like art, literature, or film.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
She writes articles to criticise new films for a magazine.
She writes articles to review and evaluate new films for a magazine.
🔗 Collocations
criticise a work – to analyze and judge a piece of art, literature, etc.
constructively criticise – to give feedback intended to help improvement
criticise from a... perspective – to evaluate using a specific theoretical or cultural viewpoint
🔄 Synonyms
Wordbook
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