Meaning of the word critical in English

What does critical mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

critical

US /ˈkrɪt̬.ɪ.kəl/

UK /ˈkrɪt.ɪ.kəl/

expressing adverse or disapproving comments or judgments

Example:

•

He received a lot of critical feedback on his performance.

•

The reviews of the new movie were highly critical.

Antonym:

approving complimentary laudatory praising

having a decisive importance in the success or failure of something

Example:

•

Timely intervention is critical for patient recovery.

•

The next few days will be critical for the company's future.

Synonym:

crucial vital essential pivotal decisive

involving the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment

Example:

•

She has a highly developed critical thinking ability.

•

The course aims to foster students' critical analysis skills.

Synonym:

analytical evaluative discerning judicious

(of a disease or patient) at a stage at which life is in danger

Example:

•

The patient's condition is still critical.

•

He was admitted to the hospital in critical condition.

Synonym:

serious grave severe dangerous life-threatening