Meaning & use
critical
Expressing disapproval by pointing out faults or mistakes in someone or something.
See it in a sentence
The reviewer was highly critical of the film's slow and confusing plot.
My manager grew critical of how long the project was taking to finish.
A note on using this word
Critical in this sense usually pairs with 'of' (critical of the plan); it differs from the equally common sense of 'critical' meaning vitally important.
Words with a similar meaning
disapprovingfault-findingjudgmental
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
complimentaryapproving
Another way to use it
2. adjective
Of vital or crucial importance; having a decisive effect on the outcome of something.
Getting enough sleep before the exam is critical to performing well.
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