openly criticise

USAGE SUMMARY

"openly criticise" is a grammatically correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It means to express disapproval or negative judgment publicly and without hesitation. Example: The government was openly criticised by the opposition party for their handling of the recent economic crisis.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Some Iraqis openly criticise the fighters, despite the risks.

The Guardian

A small minority openly criticise the authoritarianism of both the Brotherhood and the army.

The Guardian

I openly criticise this dictatorial regime in my articles and interviews or whenever I can.

The Guardian

Some residents are reluctant to openly criticise Tepco, a major local employer.

The Guardian

Ainsworth is the latest senior Labour figure to openly criticise Brown.

The Guardian

Newspapers could not openly criticise the regime, and journalists who infringed this law were subjected to far stiffer penalities.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Some online commentators have openly criticised it.

The Economist

Worse, he openly criticised her journalism.

The Economist

He never openly criticised government policy.

The Guardian - Opinion

Seven of his 15 grandchildren have openly criticised the regime.

The Economist

We are openly criticising other people, and being criticised.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "openly criticise", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being criticised and why. Specificity strengthens the impact and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

While "openly criticise" is acceptable, avoid overusing it in formal or academic writing. Alternatives like "publicly critique" or "express strong disapproval" may lend a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "openly criticise" functions as a verb phrase where the adverb "openly" modifies the verb "criticise", indicating the manner in which the action is performed. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "openly criticise" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of publicly expressing disapproval. It is deemed correct and relatively common according to Ludwig. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase maintains a neutral register. Remember to use specific contexts to amplify the phrase's impact and avoid overuse in highly formal writing, opting for alternatives like "publicly critique" where appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

openly condemn

Implies a strong moral disapproval that is publicly declared.

publicly denounce

Emphasizes the act of condemning something in a public setting.

express open dissent

Highlights disagreement that is voiced without concealment.

denounce without reservation

Implies a complete and total condemnation, expressed publicly.

express strong disapproval

Focuses on the expression of disagreement and discontent.

voice outspoken criticism

Highlights the act of articulating criticism in a bold manner.

make a public critique

Stresses the analytical nature of the criticism delivered to a wide audience.

air grievances publicly

Suggests the open expression of complaints or objections.

publicly object

Focuses on the act of openly protesting or disagreeing with something.

challenge publicly

Highlights the act of questioning or disputing something in front of an audience.

FAQs

How can I use "openly criticise" in a sentence?

You can use "openly criticise" to indicate public disapproval, as in: "The opposition party "openly criticised" the government's new policy."

What phrases are similar to "openly criticise"?

Alternatives include "publicly denounce", "express strong disapproval", or "voice outspoken criticism", which vary slightly in formality and emphasis.

Is it appropriate to use "openly criticise" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "openly criticise" may be less suitable for formal contexts. Consider alternatives like "publicly critique" or "express disagreement" for a more refined tone.

What's the difference between "openly criticise" and "privately criticise"?

"Openly criticise" means to express disapproval publicly, whereas "privately criticise" means to express disapproval in a non-public or confidential setting.