a critical document

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a critical document" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a document that is essential or of great importance in a particular context. Example: "Before we proceed with the project, we need to review a critical document that outlines the project's requirements and objectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

It is a critical document.

The New York Times

He said it was "simply not satisfactory" that such a critical document be withheld from the parties with a legitimate interest in pursuing the case.

The New York Times

That proof of residence is a critical document, and for many the only form of identification: Besides serving as proof of nationality and getting you a new roof over your head, it can help you get discounted provisions at government-run stores, a phone and utility hookup and a voter registration card.

Forbes

In reality, it's a leadership position in a company, one that requires a great deal of people skills," says Jim. "You're responsible for getting a critical document out the door, one that requires input from a variety of people, whether [it's from] physicians, biostatisticians, or even programmers.

Science Magazine

There are a number of important terms and provisions in such a critical document that a client really must understand.

Huffington Post

"Since a beneficiary form is a substitute for a will, this is a critical document that allows money to transfer to a beneficiary directly -- without the overhead or complexities of probate," she says.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

In a highly critical document, António Guterres, the UN high commissioner, raised concerns that the immigration bill will damage communities and lead to the marginalisation of refugees and asylum-seekers.

The Guardian

Fatigue through overwork can produce negative returns — the critical document missed during a late-night marathon review; the error in the draft of a corporate filing that goes unnoticed.

The New York Times

She was forced to enrol instead in the sewing class, part of a vocational training programme that will enable her to make a living in the absence of that critical document.

Unicef

But in 2014 a critical environmental document that was required for the project to go-ahead was annulled in a Romanian court.

Independent

A critical nongovernment document, Ethel Rosenberg's final letter to her children written just before her execution, deserves scrutiny because of the insight it sheds not into what McCarthyism did to the Rosenbergs but what Communism did to them.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a critical document", ensure the context clearly establishes what makes the document critical. Provide specific details or reasons to emphasize its importance.

Common error

Avoid using "a critical document" without clearly explaining why the document is critical. Overusing the phrase without justification can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a critical document" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "critical" modifies the noun "document". It identifies a specific document as being of utmost importance. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a critical document" is a common and grammatically correct way to refer to a document of utmost importance. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is suitable for various contexts, primarily in news and media, but also in science and formal business settings. To ensure effective communication, remember to clearly articulate why the document is considered critical to avoid ambiguity or overstatement. Consider using synonyms like "an essential document" or "a vital document" to vary your language while maintaining clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an essential document

Replaces "critical" with "essential", focusing on the necessity of the document.

a vital document

Replaces "critical" with "vital", emphasizing the importance and indispensability of the document.

a crucial document

Replaces "critical" with "crucial", stressing the decisive role of the document.

an important document

Substitutes "critical" with "important", highlighting the significance of the document.

a key document

Uses "key" instead of "critical", indicating the document's central and important nature.

a significant document

Replaces "critical" with "significant", focusing on the notable value of the document.

a necessary document

Replaces "critical" with "necessary", emphasizing the required nature of the document.

a pivotal document

Replaces "critical" with "pivotal", stressing the turning-point nature of the document.

an integral document

Substitutes "critical" with "integral", highlighting that the document is a necessary part of something.

a fundamental document

Substitutes "critical" with "fundamental", indicating that the document is a basic and essential element.

FAQs

What does "a critical document" mean?

The phrase "a critical document" refers to a document that is essential, vital, or of significant importance in a particular context. Its role is indispensable for understanding or decision-making.

What can I say instead of "a critical document"?

You can use alternatives like "an essential document", "a vital document", or "a crucial document" depending on the context.

How to emphasize the importance of "a critical document" in my writing?

Provide context explaining why the document is critical. For example, "The report is "a critical document" because it outlines the project's key objectives and requirements."

Is "important document" the same as "a critical document"?

While similar, "a critical document" implies a higher level of importance and necessity than just an "important document". "Critical" suggests the document is indispensable, while "important" suggests it is valuable but perhaps not absolutely essential.