critically

/ˈkrɪtɪkəli/

adverb

  1. In a careful and analytical way, examining something to judge its quality, truth, or importance.

    B2
    • "Students should think critically about the information they read."B1
    • "The report critically evaluates the effects of the new policy."B2
    • "The theory has been critically examined by several researchers."C1

  2. In a way that expresses strong disapproval or points out serious faults.

    B2
    • "The article discusses the government critically."B1
    • "She spoke critically of the company’s decision."B2
    • "The proposal was critically received by environmental groups."C1

  3. In an extremely serious or dangerous condition; at a crucial level.

    B2
    • "The patient is critically ill."A2
    • "The building was critically damaged in the fire."B2
    • "Water supplies are critically low after months without rain."C1

Common mistakes

  • criticly→critically

    The word is formed from critical by changing -al to -ally.

Collocations

think criticallycritically importantcritically illcritically acclaimedcritically analyze

Word family

criticalcriticcriticismcriticizecriticality