think critically

USAGE SUMMARY

"think critically" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to encourage someone to use analytical skills when they approach a task or problem. For example, "Please think critically when analyzing the data to find meaningful insights."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

… The case studies helped me think critically, especially by thinking and responding to the questions…".

International Journal of STEM Education

They never think critically.

The New York Times

How to think critically?

The New York Times

"People don't think critically.

The Guardian

And also one able to think critically.

The New Yorker

We're trying to give students enough information to think critically.

The Guardian

If adolescents anywhere could begin to think critically, these should.

The New York Times

"It's easy not to think critically about what's happening.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Learning to think critically about potential problems is key.

The Guardian

Too often, we fail to think critically about scientific evidence.

The New York Times

So think critically and rigorously about your priorities.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In academic writing, use "think critically" to highlight the importance of analyzing sources and considering different perspectives.

Common error

Avoid merely accepting information at face value. Always "think critically" by questioning the source, purpose, and potential biases of the information presented.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "think critically" functions as an imperative, urging the audience to engage in analytical and evaluative thought processes. Ludwig AI shows that this phrase is commonly used in educational contexts to encourage critical evaluation of information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

31%

Academia

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "think critically" is a commonly used phrase that encourages analytical and evaluative thought. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Academia, it urges individuals to question assumptions and evaluate evidence before forming opinions. For alternative expressions, consider "examine critically", "analyze deeply", or "evaluate rigorously" to add nuance to your writing. Always remember to avoid surface-level understanding and to question the source and potential biases of information to truly "think critically".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

examine critically

Focuses the act of examination with a critical approach.

evaluate rigorously

Emphasizes the thoroughness and strictness of the evaluation.

assess analytically

Highlights the use of analytical methods in the assessment process.

scrutinize carefully

Highlights the detailed and meticulous examination involved.

analyze deeply

Focuses on the depth of analysis rather than the critical aspect.

approach analytically

Highlights the application of analytical methods to a particular subject.

reason logically

Stresses the importance of logical reasoning in the thought process.

deliberate thoughtfully

Emphasizes the careful and considerate nature of the deliberation.

exercise sound judgment

Focuses on the quality of the decision-making process.

view skeptically

Emphasizes a questioning or doubtful perspective.

FAQs

How can I use "think critically" in a sentence?

You can use "think critically" to encourage evaluation, such as "It's important to "think critically" about the evidence before making a decision".

What does it mean to "think critically"?

To "think critically" means to analyze information objectively and form a judgment based on evidence rather than emotion or assumption.

What are some skills associated with critical thinking?

Skills associated with critical thinking include analysis, interpretation, evaluation, explanation, and self-regulation.

What can I say instead of "think critically"?

You can use alternatives like "examine critically", "analyze deeply", or "evaluate rigorously" depending on the context.