an apt criticism

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an apt criticism" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a criticism that is appropriate or well-suited to the situation being discussed. Example: "Her analysis of the film was an apt criticism, highlighting its flaws while also acknowledging its strengths."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

That is an apt criticism of Charrito's.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

They ask it to perform the duty of an investigative reporter, when it's something rarer more like a sympathetic epistemologist.A more apt criticism is that "S.O.P" seems even better after you've heard its author discuss it for a while.

The Economist

Michael R. Bloomberg's apt criticism of Obama administration trade policy, which could contribute to tobacco-related deaths throughout the Asia-Pacific region, is only part of the story ("Why Is Obama Caving on Tobacco?," Op-Ed, Aug. 23).

The New York Times

By apostrophizing a poem and a painting that were alike in being heroically ambitious, Johns's tributes also hint at an apt self-criticism of his career.

The New Yorker

It was an apt citation.

The New Yorker

It's an apt question.

The New York Times

It's an apt choice.

The New York Times

It was an apt description.

The New York Times

Houston is an apt laboratory.

The New York Times

It's an apt metaphor.

The New York Times

That seemed an apt metaphor.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an apt criticism" when you want to highlight that the criticism is not only correct but also particularly well-suited or insightful in a given situation. It adds a layer of appreciation for the critic's understanding of the issue.

Common error

Avoid using "an apt criticism" simply as a synonym for 'correct criticism'. "Apt" implies a deeper relevance or insight that goes beyond mere accuracy. Ensure that the criticism truly stands out for its appropriateness in the specific context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an apt criticism" functions as a noun phrase, where "apt" modifies the noun "criticism". It describes a specific type of criticism that is particularly fitting or relevant. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an apt criticism" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that highlights a critique as being particularly fitting, insightful, or relevant. According to Ludwig, the phrase follows standard grammatical rules and is well-regarded. While it's not exceedingly common, its usage in news and media contexts indicates its suitability for professional communication. The key to using it effectively lies in ensuring the criticism genuinely stands out for its relevance and insight, rather than just being generally correct.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fitting critique

Replaces "apt" with "fitting", emphasizing the suitability or appropriateness of the critique.

a well-aimed critique

Substitutes "apt" with "well-aimed", suggesting the criticism is targeted accurately.

a relevant observation

Replaces "criticism" with "observation", framing the critique as a significant point.

an appropriate assessment

Uses "appropriate assessment" instead, suggesting the critique is a formal evaluation.

a pertinent remark

Changes "criticism" to "remark", indicating a comment that is directly related to the matter at hand.

a valid point

Replaces the entire phrase with a simpler expression, highlighting the legitimacy of the critical thought.

a sharp analysis

Emphasizes the incisiveness and clarity of the analytical critique.

an insightful comment

Highlights the depth and understanding behind the critique.

a clever reproach

Emphasizes the wit and intelligence behind the criticism, suggesting a smart or ingenious approach.

a timely objection

Focuses on the opportune moment the criticism is voiced, indicating its relevance to the current situation.

FAQs

How can I use "an apt criticism" in a sentence?

You can use "an apt criticism" when you want to convey that a particular critique is especially fitting, insightful, or relevant to the situation. For example: "Her analysis of the policy was an apt criticism, highlighting the key flaws that others had overlooked."

What are some alternatives to "an apt criticism"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a fitting critique", "a relevant observation", or "an appropriate assessment".

Is it more formal to say "an apt criticism" or "a good criticism"?

"An apt criticism" generally carries a more formal and sophisticated tone compared to "a good criticism". The word "apt" suggests a deeper level of suitability and insight.

What does it mean for a criticism to be 'apt'?

When a criticism is described as "apt", it means that it is particularly well-suited, appropriate, or insightful in the given context. It goes beyond simply being correct; it demonstrates a keen understanding of the subject matter.