criticize harshly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "criticize harshly" is correct and can be used in written English.
It means to criticize someone or something in a harsh or severe manner. Example: The teacher criticized her student's essay harshly, pointing out every mistake and flaw.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Chief Justice Anderson, after disclaiming any intention to criticize harshly counsel who attempted to represent defendants at the trials, said: '..

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Technological "solutions" of these sorts have been criticized harshly by many scholars.

Harvard University

Often criticized harshly after bad games, he has taken to ignoring the sports sections of newspapers.

The New York Times - Sports

Republicans leaders are in no particular hurry to end debate on the bill, which they have criticized harshly this week.

The New York Times

Indeed, some of these figures were criticized harshly in the journals for their failure to manifest cold war orthodoxy.

The New York Times - Books

Fine Clothes to the Jew (1927) was criticized harshly for its title and for its frankness, but Hughes himself felt that it represented a step forward.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But it has been criticized harshly by lawmakers from Washington State, where Boeing builds planes, and Kansas, where Boeing would have assembled the tankers.

The New York Times

But the city was later criticized harshly by the central government for allowing the shows to go on, Western diplomats say.

The New York Times - Arts

Turner was criticized harshly in the American press and by supporters of Israel, and later said that he regretted "any implication that I believe the actions taken by Israel to protect its people are equal to terrorism".

The New Yorker

So even if you've been criticized harshly or feel it's unfair, don't throw the baby out with the bathwater.

Forbes

There are good and bad ways to respond when a media outlet's criticized harshly.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "criticize harshly", ensure that the severity of your language is justified by the situation. Overly harsh criticism can be counterproductive and damage relationships.

Common error

Be mindful of the impact of your words. While it's important to provide constructive feedback, avoid using "criticize harshly" in situations where a more gentle approach would be more effective. Aim for balance and focus on solutions rather than dwelling on problems in an excessively negative way.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "criticize harshly" functions as a verb phrase modified by an adverb. The verb "criticize" indicates the action of expressing disapproval, while the adverb "harshly" intensifies the manner in which the criticism is delivered. Ludwig confirms the correctness of the phrase, suggesting its usage is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

33%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "criticize harshly" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express strong disapproval. Ludwig confirms its validity, though its frequency is uncommon. The phrase is found in news media, academic writing, and general discussions. When using "criticize harshly", be mindful of the potential impact of your words and consider whether a more constructive approach might be appropriate. Alternatives include "severely condemn" and "sharply rebuke". Remember that while strong criticism can be necessary, it should be delivered thoughtfully and with consideration for the recipient's feelings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

severely condemn

Emphasizes strong disapproval and moral judgment.

sharply rebuke

Suggests a formal and authoritative form of criticism.

strongly disapprove of

Highlights the feeling of disagreement with something.

lambaste

Implies a fierce and public criticism.

denounce vehemently

Focuses on publicly declaring something as wrong or evil.

castigate severely

Suggests punishment or severe correction through criticism.

savagely attack

Indicates a destructive and aggressive form of criticism.

excoriate

Implies stripping away someone's reputation through criticism.

berate severely

Focuses on scolding someone intensely.

give a blistering critique

Emphasizes the intensity and damaging nature of the criticism.

FAQs

How can I use "criticize harshly" in a sentence?

You can use "criticize harshly" to describe the act of giving severe feedback. For example: "The reviewer "criticized harshly" the author's latest book."

What are some alternatives to "criticize harshly"?

Alternatives include "severely condemn", "sharply rebuke", or "strongly disapprove of" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to "criticize harshly"?

It's appropriate to "criticize harshly" when the situation warrants a strong, negative response, such as when addressing serious misconduct or negligence. However, consider whether a more constructive approach might be more effective.

Is there a risk in using "criticize harshly"?

Yes, using "criticize harshly" can be perceived as overly negative or aggressive, potentially damaging relationships or hindering progress. Consider the potential impact on the recipient before using such strong language.