Criticise vs Criticize
What’s the difference between them?
Criticise
Meaning:
To express an unfavorable opinion of something, usually with the intention of improving it.
Examples:
1. She was always quick to criticise him for his mistakes.
2. His parents openly criticised him for his poor grades.
3. She was harshly criticised for her comments.
Criticize
Meaning:
Meaning is the same, but such spelling is mostly used in American English.
Examples:
1. My teacher was quick to criticize my essay.
2. The speaker was harshly criticized for his views on climate change.
3. I try not to criticize others without first hearing their side of the story.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Criticise
1. Reprehend
2. Denounce
3. Castigate
4. Rebuke
5. Condemn
1. Appreciate
2. Praise
3. Acclaim
4. Commend
5. Extol
Criticize
1. Reprehend
2. Denounce
3. Castigate
4. Rebuke
5. Condemn
1. Appreciate
2. Praise
3. Acclaim
4. Commend
5. Extol
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Criticise", "Criticize".
1. Criticise with an 's' when you're in Britain, Criticize with a 'z' when you're in the US.
2. When you are writing for an American audience, remember to use the form 'criticize.'
3. When you are writing for a British audience, remember to use the form 'criticise.'
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the word 'criticise' be used?
'Criticise' is typically used in situations where someone is expressing their opinion on something in a negative light, either in spoken or written form. It can be used to express disapproval of someone or something, or to point out flaws in a product or ide
When is the appropriate context for using the word 'criticize'?
'Criticize' is typically used in situations where someone is expressing their opinion on something in a negative light, either in spoken or written form. This spelling is more popular in American English, while 'critisise' is popular in British English.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
Yes, the two words 'criticise' and 'criticize' share the same pronunciation.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One common mistake people make when using these words is using them interchangeably. While the two words have similar meanings, they should be used in different regions.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. In British universities, students often learn how to _____ works of literature in depth.
2. When reviewing movies in the US, Roger Ebert would often _____ elements he didnt like.
3. Its not enough to simply _____; one should offer constructive feedback.
4. Many authors, regardless of being from the UK or US, appreciate when readers _____ their work, as it helps them grow.
5. The manager, being from London, tends to _____ team presentations quite rigorously.
6. American academics frequently _____ the methodologies of studies in their peer reviews.
1. Answer: criticise
Explanation: The clue British universities indicates that the British spelling criticise should be used.
2. Answer: criticize
Explanation: The clue in the US, Roger Ebert suggests the American spelling criticize.
3. Answer: criticise/criticize
Explanation: There is no specific clue in the sentence pointing to either British or American English, so both criticise and criticize are acceptable.
4. Answer: criticise/criticize
Explanation: The phrase regardless of being from the UK or US implies that either spelling is appropriate.
5. Answer: criticise
Explanation: The clue manager, being from London implies the British spelling criticise.
6. Answer: criticize
Explanation: The term American academics suggests the American spelling criticize.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.