# critically

**Pronunciation:** /ˈkrɪtɪkli/ · KRIT-ik-lee

**CEFR level:** B2

**Part of speech:** adverb

## Meaning 1: Evaluation

In a way that involves careful judgment and evaluation of something's good and bad aspects, or in a way that is essential or crucial.

## Examples

- The committee reviewed the proposal critically, pointing out several flaws.
- It is critically important to follow safety procedures in the lab.
- She analyzed the data critically to ensure the accuracy of her findings.

## Meaning 2: Health

In a very serious or dangerous condition, often referring to health.

## Examples

- The patient's condition worsened and they were moved to critically ill care.
- After the accident, he was critically injured and required immediate surgery.
- The doctors monitored her critically low blood pressure throughout the night.

## Synonyms

- seriously — With a grave or important attitude; can imply importance but not necessarily judgment.
- crucially — Emphasizes the vital importance of something.
- analytically — Focuses on breaking down and examining components.
- judiciously — With good judgment and wisdom.
- imperatively — With absolute necessity or command.

## Antonyms

- uncritically — Without careful thought or judgment.
- superficially — Without depth or thoroughness.

## Common patterns

- critically review — To examine something carefully, pointing out strengths and weaknesses. — Students are expected to critically review academic articles.
- critically analyze — To examine something in detail to understand its structure or meaning. — The essay critically analyzes the impact of social media on society.
- critically evaluate — To assess the value or quality of something with careful judgment. — You need to critically evaluate the sources before using them in your research.

## Collocations

- critically important — It is critically important that we address climate change now.
- critically acclaimed — The film was critically acclaimed for its stunning visuals and powerful story.
- critically endangered — Many species are now critically endangered due to habitat loss.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/critically

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