1. to express disapproval of someone or something; to point out faults or problems
Usage: British spelling; American spelling is ‘criticize’
2. to analyze and judge the merits and faults of something, especially a work of art or literature
Usage: formal; academic

Examples

• The teacher criticised the student’s poor handwriting.
• Don’t criticise her cooking – she’s still learning.
• The newspaper criticised the government’s new policy.
• Art critics often criticise modern paintings harshly.
• He criticised the book’s weak plot development.
• She felt hurt when her friends criticised her decision.
• The film was criticised for its unrealistic dialogue.