critique

critique — noun

1. A written document in which someone analyzes a book, film, theory, or policy, di

1.nounB2
Definition

A written document in which someone analyzes a book, film, theory, or policy, discussing its good and bad points and giving an overall judgment.

Example

Gabriel wrote a detailed critique of the new education policy for the local newspaper.

critique + of + [topic] (object pattern)

The professor's critique of the research paper pointed out several flaws in the methods used.

Common collocations
  • write a critique
  • publish a critique
  • detailed critique
  • fair critique
  • harsh critique
  • critique of
Synonyms
  • review

    Broader term; reviews often appear in newspapers or online for books, films, or restaurants, while 'critique' is more academic.

  • analysis

    More neutral than 'critique' — analysis examines structure or components without necessarily passing judgment.

  • appraisal

    Often used in professional or financial contexts to determine value, whereas 'critique' focuses on intellectual or artistic merit.

  • criticism

    Broader than 'critique'; can be oral or informal, and often carries a negative tone. 'Critique' implies a more balanced, detailed assessment.

Antonyms
  • praise

    Expresses approval without detailed examination or judgment of flaws.

Grammar Patterns

critique + of + [subject being evaluated]

Usage Note

Unlike the general word 'criticism,' a critique is almost always a structured, written evaluation. The noun is typically followed by 'of' to specify what is being examined.

Common Mistakes

The teacher gave me a critique about my essay.
The teacher gave me a critique of my essay.
'critique' as a noun is followed by 'of', not 'about'.

critique — verb

Word family

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/1

All four words involve examining something, but they differ in scope, formality, and intent. A 'critique' is a formal, written evaluation that balances strengths and weaknesses — common in academic and professional settings. A 'review' is broader and less formal, often found in newspapers or blogs about films, books, or restaurants; it may include personal opinion rather than systematic analysis. 'Criticism' is the most general term: it can be oral or written, brief or detailed, and often carries a negative tone. 'Analysis' focuses on breaking something down to understand its structure or components, without necessarily passing judgment. For example: 'A film review says whether you should watch it; a film critique examines how the director's choices affect the story.'

critique ↗review ↗criticism ↗analysis ↗

Common collocations

Nouns

Adverbs

Phrases

  • subject to critique
  • offer a critique
  • write a critique

Prepositions

Etymology

GreekLatinFrenchEnglish

Borrowed from French 'critique,' meaning 'the art of criticism,' which came from Latin 'criticus' (a judge), tracing back to Greek 'kritikos' (able to discern) and the verb 'krinein' (to separate, decide, or judge). The word first appeared in English in the 17th century as a noun referring to a critical essay or evaluation. The verb form emerged later, in the 18th century.