be allowed to criticize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be allowed to criticize" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing permission or the right to express disapproval or critique someone or something. Example: "In a healthy debate, participants should be allowed to criticize each other's viewpoints respectfully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Only fans should be allowed to criticize.

The New York Times

"On the one hand, he can't be allowed to criticize without punishment.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

"Patriots can criticize, they're allowed to criticize," Giuliani said.

The Guardian

"We live in an amazing country where we are allowed to criticize and scrutinize our elected leaders.

The Guardian - Tech

Not being allowed to criticize the emir is one such provision, but there are others, including a prohibition on printing anything that "may instigate the overthrow of the regime in the country, cause harm thereto or damage the supreme interest of the state," or "any propaganda urging to embrace destructive principles," or any news about the military without permission.

The New York Times

If you love someone, you're allowed to criticize them.

Huffington Post

Hoekstra is allowed to criticize them as well, apparently!

Huffington Post

"In France, you are allowed to criticize through drawings, including cartoons.

Vice

He cannot say that!" That basically means that he is allowed to criticize Wall Street though!

Huffington Post

Of course, a white man is allowed to criticize identity politics.

Huffington Post

No one is allowed to criticize a Chinese leader for doubling the national debt in 8 years - just ask those 28 still-missing investors, who were foolish enough to complain back on October 25th.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be allowed to criticize", ensure the context clearly indicates who grants the permission or recognizes the right to criticize. Ambiguity can weaken the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "be allowed to criticize" in contexts where the right to criticize is universally understood, such as in academic discourse. Overstating the permission can sound condescending or imply unwarranted restrictions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be allowed to criticize" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating permission or entitlement to express disapproval or critique. It signifies that someone has been granted the freedom or right to voice their critical opinions. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be allowed to criticize" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express permission or the right to voice critical opinions. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is suitable for written English. It is commonly found in news and media contexts, indicating its relevance in discussions about freedom of expression and the boundaries of acceptable discourse. Related phrases include "have permission to critique" and "have the right to critique", each with slight differences in emphasis. When using this phrase, ensure clarity about who grants the permission and avoid overstating the obvious in contexts where criticism is already expected. The frequency of its use indicates it is a common expression, reflecting its importance in contemporary discussions about rights and responsibilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can critique

A shorter and more direct way of expressing the ability and permission to criticize.

may criticize

Uses "may" to indicate possibility and permission to criticize.

have the right to critique

Replaces "be allowed" with "have the right", focusing on entitlement rather than permission.

have permission to critique

Replaces "be allowed" with "have permission", emphasizing the formal aspect of granting permission.

be free to object to

Highlights the freedom to express opposition or disagreement.

be permitted to censure

Substitutes "criticize" with "censure", suggesting a stronger, more formal disapproval.

be authorized to critique

Suggests official approval or sanction for the act of criticizing.

be entitled to disapprove of

Expresses a sense of being justified in holding a negative opinion.

be in a position to evaluate

Indicates having the necessary knowledge or authority to make a critical assessment.

be able to judge

Focuses on the ability to form a critical opinion, rather than express it publicly.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "be allowed to criticize" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "be permitted to censure" or "have the right to critique". These alternatives emphasize entitlement or official permission.

Is there a shorter way to say "be allowed to criticize"?

Yes, you can use "can critique" or "may criticize" as concise alternatives. These options retain the meaning while reducing wordiness.

What's the difference between "be allowed to criticize" and "have the right to criticize"?

"Be allowed to criticize" implies permission granted by an authority, while "have the right to criticize" suggests an inherent entitlement, often based on principles like freedom of speech. The former is situational, the latter is more fundamental.

In what situations is it inappropriate to use "be allowed to criticize"?

It may be inappropriate in contexts where criticism is already expected or encouraged, such as in creative brainstorming sessions or academic peer reviews. Using "be allowed to criticize" in such situations might imply unnecessary restrictions.