criticize
UK/'kritisaiz/US
NGSL 3kA2
Definitions
v.
To indicate the faults of someone or something in a disapproving way
批评；指责
v.
To evaluate the merits and faults of a work in a considered way
评论；评析
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedcriticto separate, discern, judge, decide
+
-izeto make, to become
=criticize
critic (one who judges) + -ize (to do, to make) = 'to act as a critic.' In everyday English it usually means pointing out faults; the neutral 'evaluate carefully' sense appears mainly in academic and artistic contexts.
Usage Guide
- Spelling: criticize (AmE) / criticise (BrE) — both correct, pick one and stay consistent.
- Structure: criticize someone for (doing) something — the fault follows 'for.'
Example Sentences
- 1.
Reporters criticized the company for hiding the safety report.
- 2.
It's easy to criticize, but much harder to offer a solution.
- 3.
She criticized the novel's slow pacing in her review.