criticize them for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "criticize them for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the act of expressing disapproval or pointing out faults in someone's actions or decisions. Example: "Many people criticize them for their lack of transparency in the decision-making process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

I cannot criticize them for that.

The New York Times

We accept their right to do so and never, ever criticize them for it.

The New York Times

Many of these analysts are hardly fans of the companies but criticize them for other reasons.

The New York Times

Republicans stood ready to block the measure, and Democrats ready to criticize them for it.

The New York Times

"A Secret," based on the writing of their affectionate and loyal son, does not criticize them for this choice.

The New York Times

Some aid experts believe such interventions worthy while others criticize them for not providing lasting employment or, with street-cleaning, lasting results.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

That it has adult content on the network shouldn't surprise anyone, and as long as it's something you have to look for, I think criticizing them for it is as sensible as criticizing Google.

TechCrunch

No one criticizes them for their ancestry.

The New York Times - Sports

He criticized them for emphasizing inexpensive wines over luxury wines.

The New York Times

How much do they worry about the Democrats criticizing them for not appointing a woman?

The New Yorker

"We've long criticized them for not using their best managers," said Janet Yang, a Morningstar analyst.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "criticize them for", ensure the reason for criticism is clear and specific to avoid ambiguity. State the action or decision being criticized to provide context.

Common error

Avoid making general statements when using "criticize them for". Instead of saying "criticize them for their actions", specify which actions are being criticized to make your point more effective and avoid misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "criticize them for" functions as a verb phrase followed by a preposition, indicating the action of expressing disapproval or finding fault with someone or something. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "criticize them for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote disapproval or fault-finding. As affirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is versatile and suitable for a wide array of contexts, particularly in news and media. To ensure clarity and precision, it's advisable to specify the reasons for criticism. Alternatives like "reproach them for" or "condemn them for" offer nuanced ways to express similar sentiments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reproach them for

Emphasizes blame or disapproval, often with a sense of disappointment.

condemn them for

Implies a strong disapproval or judgment, often with moral implications.

denounce them for

Suggests a public and formal expression of disapproval.

fault them for

Focuses on finding errors or weaknesses in their actions or decisions.

blame them for

Attributes responsibility for something negative or undesirable.

find fault with them for

Highlights the act of actively searching for and identifying flaws.

take issue with them regarding

Indicates disagreement or opposition to a specific point or action.

object to their

Expresses disapproval or opposition to their actions or beliefs.

disapprove of their

Conveys a negative opinion or sentiment towards their behavior or choices.

express dissatisfaction with their

Indicates a lack of contentment or approval regarding their actions.

FAQs

How can I use "criticize them for" in a sentence?

You can use "criticize them for" to express disapproval or point out faults in someone's actions or decisions. For example, "Many people "criticize them for" their lack of transparency in the decision-making process".

What are some alternatives to "criticize them for"?

Alternatives include "reproach them for", "condemn them for", or "blame them for", each carrying slightly different connotations.

Is it more formal to say "criticize them for" or "blame them for"?

"Criticize them for" is generally considered more neutral and suitable for various contexts, while "blame them for" can be seen as more accusatory and informal.

What's the difference between "criticize them for" and "find fault with them for"?

"Criticize them for" implies a general disapproval, whereas "find fault with them for" suggests a more active and deliberate search for errors or weaknesses.