Definitions for: Criticism


[n] a serious examination and judgment of something; "constructive criticism is always appreciated"
[n] a written evaluation of a work of literature
[n] disapproval expressed by pointing out faults or shortcomings; "the senator received severe criticism from his opponent"



Webster (1913) Definition: Crit"i*cism (kr?t"?-s?z'm), n.
1. The rules and principles which regulate the practice of
the critic; the art of judging with knowledge and
propriety of the beauties and faults of a literary
performance, or of a production in the fine arts; as,
dramatic criticism.

The elements ofcriticism depend on the two
principles of Beauty and Truth, one of which is the
final end or object of study in every one of its
pursuits: Beauty, in letters and the arts; Truth, in
history and sciences. --Brande & C.

By criticism, as it was first instituted by
Aristotle, was meant a standard of judging well.
--Dryden.

2. The act of criticising; a critical judgment passed or
expressed; a critical observation or detailed examination
and review; a critique; animadversion; censure.

About the plan of ``Rasselas'' little was said by
the critics; and yet the faults of the plan might
seem to invite severe criticism. --Macaulay.

Synonyms: critique, literary criticism, unfavorable judgment

See Also: analysis, attack, blast, brickbat, carping, critical analysis, critical appraisal, critical review, critique, disapproval, examen, explication de texte, faultfinding, fire, flack, flak, knock, new criticism, piece of writing, potshot, rebuke, reprehension, reprimand, reproof, reproval, review, review article, roast, self-criticism, slating, stricture, textual criticism, thrust, writing, written material

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