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adv B2 Upper-Intermediate Common

critically

KRIHT-ihk-lee

Critically (adv) means in a way that involves careful judgment or analysis. Example: “Students are taught to read texts critically.”

adv
1
In a way that involves careful judgment or analysis.
"Students are taught to read texts critically."
2
To an extremely important or serious degree.
"She was critically injured in the accident."
3
In a fault-finding way.
"He spoke critically about the new management."

How to Use Critically

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishWith careful judgment, or to a very serious degree ("critically ill").

Common pairings
critically ill critically acclaimed think critically

Word Forms

more critically comparative, most critically superlative

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Students are taught to read texts _____.

Etymology

From critical + -ly.

Related Words

Rhymes for critically

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “critically” mean?

The word “critically” means in a way that involves careful judgment or analysis. In plain terms, with careful judgment, or to a very serious degree ("critically ill").

How do you pronounce “critically”?

“Critically” is pronounced KRIHT-ihk-lee (/ˈkɹɪt.ɪk.li/ in IPA).

How do you use “critically” in a sentence?

Here is “critically” used in a sentence: “Students are taught to read texts critically.”

What is the opposite of “critically”?

The opposite of “critically” — its antonyms — is uncritically.

What part of speech is “critically”?

“Critically” is an adverb.

Is “critically” a common word?

“Critically” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

How many meanings does “critically” have?

“Critically” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: in a way that involves careful judgment or analysis.

What is the difference between 'critically' and 'crucially'?

Both can mean to an extremely important degree, as in 'critically important.' However, 'critically' also means in a way involving careful analysis or fault-finding, meanings that 'crucially' does not carry.

What is the difference between thinking 'critically' and being 'critical'?

Thinking critically means using careful judgment and analysis to evaluate information. Being critical often means finding fault or expressing disapproval, although it can also mean crucial or decisive, depending on context.

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