Basic Details
Word: Criticise
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To say what is wrong with something or someone; to find fault.
Synonyms: Rebuke, Disapprove, Review
Antonyms: Praise, Commend, Approve
Idioms and Phrases
- Criticism is the best teacher: This phrase suggests that feedback, especially negative, can help us improve. Example: "When he received criticism on his project, he realised that criticism is the best teacher for growth."
- To take it with a pinch of salt: This means to not take criticism too seriously or to recognise it may not be completely true. Example: "Even though her friends criticised her choice of music, she took it with a pinch of salt and continued to enjoy what she liked."
Usage Examples
Example 1: It's important to criticise someone's work constructively so they can improve rather than feel hurt.
Example 2: The teacher had to criticise the students' essays to help them understand their mistakes.
Example 3: He did not mind the criticism about his presentation, as he believed it would make him a better speaker.
Fun Fact
The word "critic" comes from the Greek word "kritikos," which means 'able to discern' or 'able to judge'. This shows that critics are meant to help others improve by giving thoughtful feedback!
Famous Quote
"Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfils the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things." Winston Churchill
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "criticise" mean?
a) To compliment someone
b) To say what is wrong with something
c) To ignore a problem
d) To create something new
Answer: b) To say what is wrong with something
2. Which of these is a synonym of "criticise"?
a) Commend
b) Disapprove
c) Applaud
d) Celebrate
Answer: b) Disapprove
3. Which is an antonym of "criticise"?
a) Rebuke
b) Praise
c) Review
d) Disapprove
Answer: b) Praise
4. Which sentence uses "criticise" correctly?
a) She wanted to criticise the game.
b) They criticise a cake recipe by eating it.
c) I love to criticise my friends for their kindness.
d) It is easy to criticise, but hard to create.
Answer: d) It is easy to criticise, but hard to create.
5. What does it mean to "take criticism with a pinch of salt"?
a) To avoid criticism
b) To believe all criticism is true
c) To not take criticism too seriously
d) To enjoy criticism
Answer: c) To not take criticism too seriously
