when they criticize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when they criticize" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a situation where someone is expressing disapproval or pointing out faults regarding a person or thing. Example: "When they criticize my work, I try to take their feedback constructively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

The authors also brush off the critical role carbon dioxide will play in determining our future climate when they criticize climate models for projecting what they say is too large a range for future temperatures -- between 2 and 10 degrees F above today's levels.

Huffington Post

"When they criticize me technically".

The New York Times

In this respect, Jolley recognizes that his detractors have a point when they criticize his approach to teaching.

The New York Times - Magazine

He talks back to them in his head, he said, and criticizes them when they criticize him.

The New York Times - Science

- Kevin, New York"American Idol":"Regarding 'American Idol': I am always dismayed when they criticize someone for sounding "Broadway," as if that's a terrible thing.

The New York Times

One has to wonder what prosecutors are afraid of when they criticize Missouri's new practice of informing judges about what a given prison sentence will cost the state.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

When former students of his took a critical approach to his own work, however, when they criticized some of his doctrines and modified others to adapt them for their own goals, Brentano reacted bitterly.

SEP

International observers cited media bias when they criticized the vote.

The New York Times

An odd tightness or hardness came over you when they criticized you.

The New Yorker

When they criticized me for having an adopted child of color, that capped it.

The New York Times

Mr. Pifer said any agreement would test whether Republicans were serious when they criticized New Start for neglecting tactical weapons.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "when they criticize", ensure the context clearly identifies who "they" refers to and what is being criticized. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the sentence's impact.

Common error

Avoid vague references. Clearly define who "they" are, as ambiguity can weaken your argument and confuse readers. For example, specify "when critics criticize" instead of just "when they criticize" if you're referring to professional reviewers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when they criticize" functions as an adverbial clause of time, modifying the main clause by specifying the timing or condition under which an action or state occurs. As indicated by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "when they criticize" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adverbial clause of time. As Ludwig AI indicates, it introduces a condition or situation where criticism occurs, triggering a specific response or outcome. Predominantly found in news and media, its function is to specify the timing under which an event unfolds. The phrase carries a neutral register, applicable across diverse contexts. To ensure clarity, always clearly define who "they" refers to. Considering similar constructions like "upon their criticism" can add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

when they disapprove

Focuses on expressing disagreement or disapproval.

upon their criticism

Emphasizes the moment of receiving criticism.

if they object

Emphasizes the act of raising an objection or complaint.

if they find fault

Highlights the act of discovering errors or imperfections.

when they condemn

Focuses on expressing strong disapproval or denunciation.

on their finding flaws

Highlights the action of finding and pointing out imperfections.

as they judge

Implies an evaluation or assessment leading to criticism.

as they evaluate

Implies a formal assessment that may lead to criticism.

should they censure

Suggests a formal or strong disapproval.

if they reproach

Highlights the act of expressing disapproval or blame.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "when they criticize" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "upon their critique", "should they censure", or "in the event that they express disapproval".

Is there a difference between "when they criticize" and "when they critique"?

While "when they criticize" and "when they critique" are similar, "critique" often implies a more detailed and analytical assessment. "Criticize" can be more general and may simply indicate disapproval.

How to use "when they criticize" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe a conditional situation: "Students often learn and improve when they criticize each other's work in a constructive manner."

What are some synonyms for "when they criticize"?

Some synonyms or related phrases include: "when they disapprove", "if they object", or "as they judge" depending on the context.