critical
UK: ˈkrɪtɪkəl | US: ˈkrɪtɪkəl
adj. expressing adverse or disapproving comments or judgments
adj. crucial or decisive in a particular situation
adj. relating to the analysis of merits and faults
The word "critical" stems from the Greek "kritikos," meaning "able to discern or judge," derived from "krinein" (to separate, decide). The Latin "criticus" later refined this to denote literary judgment. By the 16th century, English adopted "critical" to describe both evaluative scrutiny and pivotal importance, reflecting the dual logic of judgment (analysis) and consequence (decisiveness).
The report was highly critical of the government's policies.
Water is critical for survival in arid regions.
She has a critical eye for detail in art.
The patient remains in critical condition after surgery.
His critical thinking skills helped solve the complex problem.