make a criticism

USAGE SUMMARY

"make a criticism" is a phrase that is seen often in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to express an opinion on a topic or issue. Example: "I don't think this proposal is very good, so I'm going to make a criticism."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

If you make a criticism of these policies, it's not seen as an interesting academic debate, it's seen as an attack on someone's job, so you are more likely to find yourself in the complaints procedure".

The Guardian

But anyone can make a criticism; proposing solutions to solve problems is more difficult.

Huffington Post

If I must make a criticism it would only be that sometimes his orchestrations are so beautiful they verge on being too sweet, just a tad over the top, like putting honey on top of a rich dark chocolate sauce-but then some make the same comment of the music of Messiaen, so perhaps this is more a matter of taste than critical judgement.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"If someone makes a criticism, you take it on board and send a response back, and then if it is clear they are not interested in any sort of reasonable exchange of ideas and just want to get a reaction, check their feeds to see if they are behaving like this with other people.

Science Magazine

Show me any criticism, if you're so concerned about Chicago, do your research, show me where he's made a criticism about the mayor.

Los Angeles Times

"In the 16th or 17th centuries, if you had a painting of someone wearing glasses, it was artist making a criticism of the person in the picture, either to suggest that they were mean, or morally suspect, or guilty of various other vices," said Handley.

Huffington Post

Unawares, they make a covert criticism: Chávez has not institutionalised his revolution.

The Guardian - Opinion

Anke Engelke, a German comedian charged with delivering the voting results via video link in Hamburg, took the time to make a subtle criticism of Azerbaijan's democratic credentials.

Independent

There is an online culture where netizens make a sweeping criticism towards women in general claiming that women are extravagant while men work hard to collect money to get married.

Huffington Post

Ronenberg et al [ 14] also make a bitter criticism of the coevolution theory but, more generally, acknowledge that amino acids in a biosynthetic relationship have codons beginning with the same first base [ 14].

Biology Direct

Judgments will have to be made, and, unless there are grave violations of due process, or a gross misapplication of the principles of resource allocation, it seems unlikely that one could make a principled criticism of a particular decision that could be used as a basis for a claim against the state.

BMC International Health and Human Rights

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make a criticism", ensure that the criticism is constructive and specific to avoid sounding overly negative or accusatory.

Common error

Avoid using "make a criticism" without providing clear examples or supporting evidence. Vague criticisms can be easily dismissed and are less likely to lead to positive change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a criticism" functions as a verb phrase. It typically acts as the predicate of a sentence, expressing the action of offering a negative evaluation or pointing out flaws. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in academic, news, and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make a criticism" is a grammatically sound and relatively common phrase used to express disapproval or offer evaluative feedback. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in written English. While it is versatile, ensure that the criticism is specific and constructive. Consider related phrases like "offer a critique" or "raise concerns" depending on the desired level of formality and directness. It's also important to avoid vagueness to ensure the criticism is well-received and effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

offer a critique

This alternative uses 'critique' instead of 'criticism', implying a more detailed and formal evaluation.

express disapproval

This phrase is less direct and focuses on conveying a negative sentiment rather than providing specific points.

voice objections

This implies a more formal and potentially public expression of disagreement.

lodge a complaint

This suggests a formal expression of dissatisfaction, often directed at a specific entity or process.

raise concerns

This is a milder way to express worries or doubts, often used to prompt further discussion.

find fault with

This implies a tendency to focus on negative aspects and identify imperfections.

point out flaws

This emphasizes the act of identifying specific weaknesses or defects.

express reservations

This indicates a degree of hesitation or doubt, suggesting incomplete agreement.

take issue with

This suggests a direct disagreement or challenge to a particular point or statement.

cast aspersions on

This is a stronger, more accusatory way to express criticism, often implying defamation.

FAQs

How can I effectively "make a criticism"?

To effectively "make a criticism", be specific, provide evidence to support your claims, and focus on the issue rather than the person. Frame your criticism constructively to encourage improvement.

What's a more formal way to say "make a criticism"?

A more formal way to say "make a criticism" is to "offer a critique". This suggests a more detailed and considered evaluation.

Is it better to "make a criticism" or "raise concerns"?

Whether to "make a criticism" or "raise concerns" depends on the context. "Make a criticism" is more direct and evaluative, while "raise concerns" is often used to express doubts or worries and prompt further discussion.

What's the difference between "make a criticism" and "lodge a complaint"?

"Make a criticism" is a general expression of disapproval, while "lodge a complaint" implies a formal expression of dissatisfaction, often directed at a specific entity or process.