criticize
UK: ˈkrɪtɪsaɪz | US: ˈkrɪtɪsaɪz
vt. to express disapproval of someone or something by pointing out faults
vt. to evaluate or analyze the merits and flaws of a work (e.g., art, literature)
vi. to act as a critic; to engage in criticism
criticize = critic<judge> + ize<verb suffix>
- critic: From Greek kritikos (able to discern/judge), derived from krinein (to separate, decide). In English, it evolved to mean "one who evaluates."
- ize: A verb-forming suffix from Greek -izein, indicating "to make/do something."
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to the Greek concept of krinein (to decide), reflecting the critic's role in separating good from bad. The suffix -ize transforms the noun "critic" into an action, embodying the act of judgment. Over time, "criticize" shifted from neutral evaluation to often implying negative judgment.
The teacher criticized the student’s essay for lacking evidence.
Critics often criticize films for poor storytelling.
She hesitated to criticize her colleague’s work publicly.
The report criticized the government’s environmental policies.
Constructive feedback should criticize ideas, not people.