critic

Everyday

1. A critic is a person whose job is to give opinions about films, books, music, food, art or plays, often in newspapers, magazines or online. tree →
2. A critic is someone who says what they think is wrong or bad about a person, idea or plan: «critics of the new rule». tree →
3. (informal) «Everyone's a critic» is a joke said when someone complains about your work. tree →

In the lessons

In English lessons, pupils write reviews like a critic: give a star rating and reasons with evidence. In news and politics, critics argue against a decision, and fair reports give both supporters' and critics' views. Being critical can mean thinking carefully («critical thinking»), not only being negative. Phrases: «film critic», «food critic», «a harsh critic», «a fierce critic of», «your own worst critic».

Examples

• The film critic gave the movie five stars. tree →
• A food critic visited our local restaurant. tree →
• Critics of the plan said it would cost too much. tree →
• Don't be your own worst critic — your drawing is good! tree →
• «Everyone's a critic!» laughed Dad when we didn't like his soup. tree →
• The book was loved by readers but not by critics. tree →

Note

Plural «critics». Say KRIT-ik. Trap: «critic» is a person; «criticism» is what they say; «critique» (cri-TEEK) is a careful written judgement. «Critical» can also mean very serious («in a critical condition»).