criticism
/'kritisizm/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- The act of making judgments about the qualities and faults of a work of art, literature, etc.: "Criticism" can refer to the analysis and evaluation of creative works.
- The act of expressing disapproval of someone or something by pointing out their faults or problems: "Criticism" also means the expression of negative judgment or censure.
- A serious examination and judgment of something: This meaning emphasizes a detailed, often academic, analysis.
Usage and Examples
General Usage:
- She writes literary criticism for a major newspaper. (She analyzes and evaluates books professionally.)
- He is sensitive to any criticism of his work. (He is easily upset by negative comments about his work.)
- The new policy faced harsh criticism from the public. (The public strongly expressed their disapproval of the new policy.)
In Context:
- Constructive Criticism: Advice that is intended to be helpful and positive, not just negative.
- I hope you can take this as constructive criticism to improve your project.
- Literary Criticism: The study, discussion, and interpretation of literature.
- Her thesis focuses on feminist literary criticism.
Advanced Usage and Nuances
- "To be open to criticism": Willing to listen to and consider negative feedback.
- A good leader must be open to criticism.
- "To come under criticism": To be subjected to judgment or disapproval.
- The company's environmental record has come under heavy criticism.
- "A storm of criticism": A very large amount of strong disapproval.
- The proposal sparked a storm of criticism from experts.
Variants and Related Words
- Critic (n): A person who judges the merits of creative works or expresses disapproval.
- The film critic gave the movie a poor review.
- Critical (adj):
- Inclined to find fault or judge with severity.
- He has a very critical nature.
- Involving careful analysis or judgment.
- Critical thinking is an essential skill.
- Of the greatest importance; crucial.
- We are at a critical point in the negotiations.
- Critique (n/v): A detailed analysis and assessment, or the act of providing one. Often used in more formal or academic contexts than "criticism".
- She presented a insightful critique of the author's theories.
Synonyms
- Evaluation: Assessment of value or quality.
- Analysis: Detailed examination of elements or structure.
- Censure: Strong expression of disapproval, often formal.
- Condemnation: To declare something wrong or evil; severe censure.
- Review: A formal assessment or examination of something.
Antonyms
- Praise: Expression of warm approval or admiration.
- Compliment: A polite expression of praise or admiration.
- Approval: The belief that someone or something is good or acceptable.
- Commendation: Formal or official praise.
Common Collocations and Phrases
- Face criticism: To be confronted with disapproval.
- Offer criticism: To give negative feedback or judgment.
- Valid criticism: Disapproval or analysis that is fair and based on truth.
- Self-criticism: The act of analyzing and judging one's own actions or work.
- Political criticism: Disapproval directed at government policies or actions.
Notes on Usage
- The word "criticism" can be neutral (simply meaning analysis) or negative (meaning disapproval). The context usually makes the meaning clear.
- "Constructive criticism" is a very common phrase used to distinguish helpful feedback from mere fault-finding.
- In academic contexts, "criticism" (e.g., literary criticism, textual criticism) is a standard term for analysis and interpretation, not necessarily implying a negative judgment.
Noun
- a written evaluation of a work of literature
- a serious examination and judgment of something
- constructive criticism is always appreciated
- disapproval expressed by pointing out faults or shortcomings
- the senator received severe criticism from his opponent