Synonyms for

Critical

Verb / ˈkrɪtɪkʌl / Another word for critical — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

expressing adverse or disapproving comments or judgments. Involving skillful judgment as to truth, merit, etc.; judicial.

Synonyms & similar words

decisive uncritical noncritical vital judgmental fault-finding disapproving hypercritical overcritical picky carping censorious captious deprecating derogatory negative unsympathetic cynical skeptical dissenting opposing objecting adverse hostile

Synonyms by register

Formal

crucial pivotal essential vital decisive

Informal

key important big major

Literary

momentous fateful climactic

Antonyms

unimportant insignificant trivial minor secondary nonessential

Common collocations

  • critical thinking
  • critical condition
  • critical mass
  • critical juncture
  • critical review
  • critical importance
  • critical moment

Word family

noun criticism
verb criticize
adjective critical
adverb critically

Usage note

Often used to describe a situation or point that is extremely important or decisive. Can also mean fault-finding, so context is key.

Example sentences

  1. The teacher gave critical feedback on the student's essay.
  2. The critical review of the movie was not favorable.
  3. It is important to be critical when making important decisions.
  4. The doctor's critical examination revealed a serious issue.
  5. The critical thinking skills of the detective helped solve the case.

Quotes

  • In critical moments, men sometimes see exactly what they wish to see.
  • The critical period of matrimony is breakfast-time.
  • It is only with true love and compassion that we can begin to mend what is broken in the world. It is these two blessed things that can begin to heal all broken hearts.

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