/ ˈkrɪtɪsɪzəm; NAmE / noun
1.
[ U , C ] criticism (of sb/sth) | criticism (that ... ) the act of expressing disapproval of sb/sth and opinions about their faults or bad qualities; a statement showing disapproval :
The plan has attracted criticism from consumer groups.
There was widespread criticism of the government's handling of the disaster.
People in public life must always be open to criticism (= willing to accept being criticized) .
Ben is very sensitive, he just can't take criticism .
to offer sb constructive criticism (= that is meant to be helpful)
I didn't mean it as a criticism.
criticisms levelled at (= aimed at) journalists
My only criticism of the house is that it is on a main road.
OPP praise
2.
[ U ] the work or activity of making fair, careful judgements about the good and bad qualities of sb/sth, especially books, music, etc. :
literary criticism
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WORD ORIGIN
early 17th cent.: from critic or Latin criticus + -ism .