critical remark

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "critical remark" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a comment or observation that expresses disapproval or points out a flaw. Example: "The author's critical remark about the plot development sparked a lively discussion among the readers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Ask your colleague to clarify the critical remark before determining the nature of the criticism and how you should resolve it.

WikiHow

But one critical remark really got under the company's skin.

The Washington Post

In the interview, he retracted every critical remark he had made only a few months earlier.

The New York Times

Some citizens feel "insulted" at the slightest critical remark about the state, government or our ancestors.

The Guardian - Books

In this era of forklift trucks, hardly anyone ever sees a brickbat, yet everyone understands the word to mean an unfavorable or critical remark.

The New York Times - Magazine

But the only critical remark it earned in the period, in The Real Estate Record and Guide in 1903, was that it was "a departure from the usual". Until 1906, Red House remained an inexplicable blip of architectural idiosyncrasy.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

That his evidence prompted several critical remarks.

The Guardian

Witherspoon apologized for his critical remarks to King.

The New York Times - Sports

Mike never became agitated or made critical remarks.

The New York Times - Travel

However, some critical remarks on their use can also be made.

Journal of Chromatography A

Some critical remarks useful in designing a nonlinear Kalman filter are pointed out.

Measurement

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and the situation when using "critical remark". In formal settings, more neutral terms like "unfavorable observation" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid simply pointing out flaws without offering potential solutions or suggestions for improvement. A "critical remark" is more valuable when accompanied by constructive feedback.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "critical remark" functions as a noun phrase, where "critical" modifies the noun "remark". It describes a specific type of comment or observation. As Ludwig AI highlights, this phrase is usable in written English and appears in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "critical remark" is a common and grammatically correct way to express disapproval or point out a flaw. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various writing contexts. It functions as a noun phrase and serves to highlight shortcomings, often with an implicit call for improvement. While suitable for neutral registers like news and general discussions, consider alternatives like "negative comment" or "unfavorable observation" for more formal settings. Ensure that any "critical remark" is accompanied by constructive feedback to enhance its value.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

negative comment

Replaces "remark" with a more general term, emphasizing the negativity.

unfavorable observation

Uses more formal language to convey a similar meaning.

disapproving statement

Highlights the element of disapproval in the remark.

harsh criticism

Emphasizes the severity of the remark.

pointed critique

Suggests a precise and direct form of criticism.

scathing assessment

Implies a strongly negative and destructive evaluation.

adverse feedback

A more business-oriented term for negative commentary.

derogatory comment

Focuses on the belittling or insulting nature of the remark.

biting remark

Suggests a sharp and hurtful comment.

uncomplimentary observation

Uses a double negative to express a lack of praise or approval.

FAQs

How can I use "critical remark" in a sentence?

You can use "critical remark" to describe a comment that expresses disapproval or points out a flaw, for example, "The reviewer made a "critical remark" about the film's ending".

What are some alternatives to "critical remark"?

Alternatives include "negative comment", "unfavorable observation", or "disapproving statement", depending on the context.

Is it better to give a "critical remark" directly or indirectly?

The best approach depends on the situation and the person receiving the feedback. Sometimes, a direct "critical remark" is necessary for clarity, while other times, a more indirect approach may be more effective to avoid causing offense.

How can I respond to a "critical remark"?

Try to understand the remark's intent and ask for clarification if needed. Respond calmly and professionally, and consider the feedback as an opportunity for growth.