Harsh criticisms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Harsh criticisms" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to severe or severe negative feedback or evaluations of someone's actions, work, or ideas. Example: "The author's latest book received harsh criticisms from literary critics, who found fault with its plot and character development."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Does it make her flinch to read the harsh criticisms she receives by the bucket load on a daily basis?

Independent

Even worse than being out of work was hearing the harsh criticisms of her job and its duties.

The New York Times

But Mr. Codey cautioned that Republicans were in no position to make harsh criticisms or costly demands.

The New York Times

Gurudas Dasgupta, a member of Parliament from West Bengal, offered harsh criticisms in a telephone interview on Monday.

The New York Times

In a conversation three days later with James Pethokoukis, a conservative blogger for the American Enterprise Institute, he had harsh criticisms for the President.

The New Yorker

The South Korean authorities briefed local news outlets about the arrests late Tuesday, only hours after President Lee Myung-bak delivered unusually harsh criticisms of North Korea's leaders.

The New York Times

Since the bug was revealed, other programmers have had harsh criticisms for what they regard as a mistake that could easily have been avoided.

The New Yorker

Since then, the fighting between rival gangs has spread to almost every corner of Mexico, leaving about 1,000 people dead and bringing harsh criticisms from Washington.

The New York Times

They have also ended their harsh criticisms of the government's popular social programs, from subsidized markets, to neighborhood clinics staffed by Cuban doctors, to literacy classes.

The New York Times

The harsh criticisms that are expected to be levied against the White House in two forthcoming reports are also a factor in the decision making, the officials said.

The New York Times

In an article published by Suler in CyberPsychology and Behavior, the author notes that: "Out spills rude language and harsh criticisms, anger, hatred, even threats.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "harsh criticisms", ensure the context justifies the intensity of the language. It's most effective when describing serious flaws or significant failures.

Common error

Avoid using "harsh criticisms" for minor disagreements or simple mistakes. This can make your writing sound overly dramatic and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "harsh criticisms" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the subject or object of a verb, denoting strong expressions of disapproval or negative evaluations. Ludwig examples confirm its role in describing reactions to policies, artistic works, and personal behaviors.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "harsh criticisms" is a frequently used noun phrase that describes strong negative feedback or evaluations. According to Ludwig, it's considered grammatically correct and is commonly found in news articles, scientific publications, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the context justifies the intensity of the language. Alternatives include "severe condemnation", "strong censure", and "sharp disapproval", offering nuanced ways to express strong disapproval.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Severe condemnation

Emphasizes the strong disapproval and judgment involved.

Strong censure

Highlights a formal expression of disapproval.

Cutting remarks

Focuses on the sharp and hurtful nature of the criticisms.

Bitter denunciations

Conveys a sense of anger and strong public disapproval.

Scathing rebukes

Highlights the forceful and severe reprimand.

Sharp disapproval

Simple and direct alternative, focusing on the intensity of the disapproval.

Damning indictments

Suggests a serious and conclusive judgment against something.

Acidic attacks

Focuses on the aggressive and corrosive nature of the criticisms.

Vicious assaults

Emphasizes the aggressive and harmful nature of the criticisms.

Unsparing critiques

Highlights the lack of mercy or leniency in the criticisms.

FAQs

How can I use "Harsh criticisms" in a sentence?

You can use "harsh criticisms" to describe strong negative feedback, for example: "The new policy faced "harsh criticisms" from the public".

What is a good alternative to "harsh criticisms"?

Alternatives include "severe condemnation", "strong censure", or "sharp disapproval", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "harsh criticisms" in formal writing?

Yes, "harsh criticisms" is appropriate for formal writing when the situation warrants strong language to describe serious disapproval or negative evaluations. However, consider the impact and whether a less intense phrase might be more suitable.

What's the difference between "harsh criticisms" and "constructive feedback"?

"Harsh criticisms" typically focus on negative aspects and can be severe, while "constructive feedback" aims to provide suggestions for improvement in a helpful manner. Constructive feedback is generally more balanced and less accusatory.