Critic
A person who judges the merits and faults of something, such as a work of art, performance, or writing; someone who habitually expresses critical opinions about others' work.
nounCritic
A person who judges the merits and faults of something, such as a work of art, performance, or writing; someone who habitually expresses critical opinions about others' work.
nounImagine This
Picture a famous theater critic in the front row, notebook ready, eyes narrowed as they evaluate every line, gesture, and costume, then jot down sharp notes that could make or break a show.
Sounds Like
KRIT-ik
Looks Like
Looks like critical, critique, and critique-related words because of the shared root crit- meaning 'to judge'.
Remember This
Critic can refer to someone who analyzes art or ideas, but it can also carry a slightly negative tone when describing someone who finds fault often. Related forms include criticize (verb) and criticism (the evaluation itself).
Other Forms
Connect With
reviewer, judge, analyst, commentator, critique
Note
Differentiate between critic (the person) and criticize (the action). Use criticism to refer to the evaluation, not the person. In positive contexts, a 'constructive critic' offers helpful, balanced feedback.