Basic Details
Word: Critical
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Very important or serious, especially in a way that could affect a situation greatly.
Synonyms: Crucial, vital, essential
Antonyms: Insignificant, unimportant, trivial
Idioms and Phrases
- At a critical juncture: Refers to a crucial point in time that requires an important decision. Example: "The team is at a critical juncture, deciding whether to accept the new project or not."
- Critical thinking: The objective analysis and evaluation of an issue to form a judgement. Example: "Teachers encourage critical thinking to help students make informed decisions."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The doctor stated that it was critical for the patient to receive immediate treatment to recover.
Example 2: In a critical situation, our quick response saved the day and helped everyone stay safe.
Example 3: The scientists made a critical discovery that could change the way we understand climate change.
Fun Fact
The word "critical" comes from the Greek word "kritikos," which means "able to judge." This shows how being critical often involves making important judgments about issues or situations!
Famous Quote
"In critical moments, we all have a tendency to exaggerate." Walter Lippmann
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "critical" mean?
a) Of little importance
b) Very important or serious
c) Uninteresting
d) Easy to understand
Answer: b) Very important or serious
2. Which of these is a synonym of "critical"?
a) Unimportant
b) Crucial
c) Trivial
d) Ordinary
Answer: b) Crucial
3. Which is an antonym of "critical"?
a) Vital
b) Essential
c) Insignificant
d) Important
Answer: c) Insignificant
4. Which sentence uses "critical" correctly?
a) The critical cat slept all day.
b) The weather forecast is critical for planning a picnic.
c) She read a critical book.
d) The critical sun shone brightly.
Answer: b) The weather forecast is critical for planning a picnic.
5. Which idiom refers to an important decision point?
a) At a critical juncture
b) In hot water
c) A breath of fresh air
d) In the same boat
Answer: a) At a critical juncture
