Top 32 Slang For Critique – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to giving feedback and criticism, using the right slang can help you navigate those tricky conversations with ease. Our team has put together a list of the most popular and effective slang terms for critique that will have you expressing your thoughts like a pro in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned critic or just dipping your toes into the world of feedback, this listicle is sure to have something for everyone. So, get ready to up your critique game and dive into our curated selection of slang for critique.

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1. Trash

To “trash” something means to criticize it severely or harshly. It is often used to express strong disapproval or disdain for something.

For example, a movie reviewer might say, “The film was so bad, I’m going to trash it in my review.”
In a heated discussion about a controversial topic, someone might say, “I can’t believe you’re defending that viewpoint, I’m going to trash your argument.”
A person might comment on a social media post, “This outfit is a disaster, I’m going to trash it in the comments.”

2. Tear down

To “tear down” something means to criticize it or dismantle it, often by pointing out flaws or weaknesses.

For instance, a music critic might say, “The singer’s performance was lackluster, I’m going to tear it down in my review.”
In a debate, one person might try to tear down their opponent’s argument by pointing out logical fallacies or inconsistencies.
A person might comment on an article, “This author’s argument is flawed, I’m going to tear it down point by point.”

3. Nitpick

To “nitpick” means to find fault in small or insignificant details, often in a hypercritical or overly meticulous manner.

For example, a teacher might say to a student, “Stop nitpicking every little mistake and focus on the main idea.”
In a movie discussion, someone might nitpick the continuity errors or plot holes in a film.
A person might comment on a blog post, “While the overall content is good, I have to nitpick the grammar mistakes.”

4. Pick apart

To “pick apart” something means to analyze it in detail and criticize it, often by breaking it down into smaller components and examining each one closely.

For instance, a literary critic might pick apart a novel by analyzing its themes, characters, and writing style.
In a political debate, one person might pick apart their opponent’s policy proposal by pointing out its flaws and potential negative consequences.
A person might comment on a product review, “I’m going to pick apart this review and see if the criticisms are valid.”

5. Give a piece of one’s mind

To “give a piece of one’s mind” means to express strong criticism or disapproval to someone, often in a confrontational or assertive manner.

For example, if someone is being rude, you might say, “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
In a meeting, if someone disagrees with a decision, they might say, “I’m going to give the boss a piece of my mind.”
A person might comment on a social media post, “This is unacceptable behavior, I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”

6. Lay into

When someone “lays into” something or someone, they are criticizing or attacking them in a harsh or aggressive manner.

For example, “She really laid into him for being late again.”
In a review of a movie, a critic might write, “The film was so bad that I couldn’t help but lay into it.”
If someone receives a negative performance review at work, they might say, “My boss really laid into me during the meeting.”

7. Cut down

To “cut down” on something means to offer negative feedback or criticism. It can also mean to mock or belittle someone or something.

For instance, “He always cuts me down whenever I share my ideas.”
In a discussion about a new product, someone might say, “I have to cut down on the design, it’s too cluttered.”
If someone is constantly making fun of others, they might be described as someone who enjoys cutting others down.

8. Knock

To “knock” something means to criticize or find fault with it.

For example, “She knocked his idea during the meeting.”
In a review of a book, a critic might say, “Although the plot was interesting, I have to knock it for the weak character development.”
If someone receives negative feedback on their artwork, they might say, “I appreciate the knock, it helps me improve.”

9. Pan

To “pan” something means to give it a negative review or critique.

For instance, “The movie was panned by critics for its poor acting.”
In a discussion about a new restaurant, someone might say, “I heard their food is terrible, it’s getting panned by everyone.”
If someone asks for your opinion on a new song and you don’t like it, you might say, “Sorry, but I have to pan it, it’s just not my style.”

10. Diss

To “diss” someone or something means to insult or criticize them.

For example, “He dissed her outfit in front of everyone.”
In a discussion about a popular TV show, someone might say, “I have to diss the writing, it’s become too predictable.”
If someone makes a sarcastic comment about someone else, they might be accused of dissing them.

11. Flame

This term refers to the act of leaving a negative or offensive comment on someone’s post or starting an argument with the intention of causing harm or provoking a reaction.

For example, “He got flamed for his controversial opinion on the forum.”
In a discussion about internet etiquette, someone might say, “Remember to be respectful and avoid flaming other users.”
A user might warn others by saying, “Be careful, this subreddit is known for flaming newcomers.”

12. Judge harshly

This phrase is used to describe the act of providing negative feedback or criticism that is particularly harsh or severe.

For instance, “The judge harshly criticized the contestant’s dance routine.”
In a conversation about art, someone might say, “Some critics tend to judge harshly and overlook the artist’s intentions.”
A teacher might advise their students, “Remember to provide constructive feedback instead of judging harshly.”

13. Put down

This slang phrase means to express disapproval or contempt towards someone or something, often by making derogatory or negative comments.

For example, “He was constantly putting down his colleagues during the meeting.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “It’s important to communicate without putting each other down.”
A person might share their experience by saying, “I’ve been put down by critics before, but it only made me more determined to succeed.”

14. Shoot down

This term is used when someone rejects or discounts another person’s ideas, opinions, or proposals without much consideration or discussion.

For instance, “He shot down my proposal without even listening to the details.”
In a brainstorming session, someone might say, “Let’s avoid shooting down ideas and instead build upon them.”
A user might comment, “Don’t be quick to shoot down someone’s suggestion without understanding their perspective.”

15. Shred

When used in the context of critique, “shred” means to analyze and criticize something in great detail, often highlighting its flaws or weaknesses.

For example, “The reviewer shredded the author’s latest book in their scathing critique.”
In a discussion about music reviews, someone might say, “The critic shredded the album, pointing out every flaw.”
A user might comment, “I hope the professor doesn’t shred my essay too harshly.”

16. Blast

To criticize or condemn someone or something harshly and forcefully. The term “blast” implies a severe and intense critique.

For example, a movie critic might write, “The film was an absolute disaster. The acting was terrible, and the plot made no sense. I’m going to blast it in my review.”
In a political debate, one candidate might say, “My opponent’s policies are completely misguided. I’m going to blast him on his lack of experience.”
A music reviewer might state, “The new album is a disappointment. I’m going to blast it for its lack of originality.”

17. Flay

To criticize or attack someone or something harshly and mercilessly. The term “flay” suggests a brutal and thorough critique.

For instance, a book reviewer might say, “The author’s writing style is atrocious. I’m going to flay this book in my review.”
In a sports analysis, a commentator might state, “The team’s performance was embarrassing. I’m going to flay them for their lack of effort.”
A restaurant critic might write, “The food was tasteless and the service was terrible. I’m going to flay this establishment in my review.”

18. Censure

To express strong disapproval or criticism towards someone or something. The term “censure” implies a formal or official condemnation.

For example, a government official might say, “We censure the actions of the opposing party for their failure to address the pressing issues.”
In a school board meeting, a member might state, “We must censure the principal for his mishandling of the recent incident.”
A journalist might write, “The article contains multiple factual errors. We censure the author for their lack of accuracy.”

19. Denounce

To publicly criticize or condemn someone or something, often for moral or ethical reasons. The term “denounce” emphasizes a strong and public disapproval.

For instance, a religious leader might denounce a controversial practice, saying, “We denounce this behavior as contrary to our beliefs.”
In a press conference, a politician might denounce a proposed policy, stating, “We denounce this policy as harmful to our economy.”
A human rights activist might denounce a government’s actions, declaring, “We denounce these human rights violations and demand justice.”

20. Slam dunk

To criticize or attack someone or something with overwhelming force and certainty. The term “slam dunk” is often used to describe a critique that is undeniable or indisputable.

For example, a film reviewer might state, “The movie was so poorly made that it’s a slam dunk for worst film of the year.”
In a debate, one side might argue, “The evidence against the defendant is overwhelming. It’s a slam dunk case.”
A music critic might say, “The album is filled with catchy melodies and brilliant lyrics. It’s a slam dunk for best album of the year.”

21. Savaging

This term refers to the act of aggressively and mercilessly criticizing someone or something. It implies tearing apart the subject of critique without any restraint or mercy.

For example, a movie critic might write, “The film was savaged by reviewers for its poor acting and weak storyline.”
In a heated online debate, one user might accuse another of “savaging” their argument.
A book reviewer might say, “The author’s latest work was savaged by critics for its lack of originality.”

22. Maul

To “maul” something or someone is to subject them to a brutal and aggressive attack, often in the form of criticism. It implies tearing apart the subject with force and causing significant damage.

For instance, a music critic might write, “The album was mauled by reviewers for its repetitive lyrics and lack of innovation.”
In a heated argument, one person might accuse the other of “mauling” their character.
A restaurant reviewer might say, “The popular eatery was mauled by critics for its subpar service and overpriced menu.”

23. Lash out

When someone “lashes out,” they respond to criticism or feedback in a defensive or angry manner. This term implies an immediate and often emotional reaction to critique.

For example, a public figure might tweet, “I can’t believe how people are lashing out at me for expressing my opinion.”
In a heated argument, one person might accuse the other of “lashing out” instead of engaging in a productive conversation.
A celebrity might say, “I often lash out when I feel attacked, but I’m working on managing my emotions better.”

24. Skewer

To “skewer” someone or something is to criticize them in a direct and severe manner. It implies targeting specific flaws or weaknesses and exposing them in a blunt and unforgiving way.

For instance, a theater critic might write, “The play was skewered for its weak writing and lackluster performances.”
In a passionate debate, one person might skewer the other’s argument with a well-reasoned counterpoint.
A food critic might say, “The restaurant was skewered by reviewers for its overpriced menu and tasteless dishes.”

25. Rake over the coals

To “rake over the coals” is to revisit or rehash past criticism, often in a negative or confrontational manner. It implies digging up old critiques and bringing them back into the spotlight.

For example, a politician might accuse their opponent of “raking over the coals” by bringing up past scandals.
In a contentious interview, a journalist might ask a celebrity to address previous criticisms and “rake over the coals.”
A colleague might say, “We shouldn’t keep raking over the coals of that failed project. Let’s focus on moving forward.”

26. Give a bad rap

To give a bad rap means to speak negatively or criticize something or someone. It implies that the subject being criticized is being unfairly judged or portrayed in a negative light.

For example, “I don’t know why people give a bad rap to horror movies. I think they can be really well-made and thought-provoking.”
In a discussion about a popular restaurant, someone might say, “I heard they give a bad rap to their service, but I’ve always had a great experience there.”
A music fan might defend their favorite artist by saying, “I don’t understand why some people give a bad rap to his music. I think it’s innovative and unique.”

27. Give feedback

To give feedback means to provide input or criticism on something, usually with the intention of helping the person or project improve. It can be both positive and negative, and is often given in a constructive manner.

For instance, “I appreciate when my boss gives feedback on my work. It helps me grow and improve.”
In a writing workshop, a participant might say, “I would love for you to give feedback on my story. I want to know how I can make it better.”
A teacher might give feedback to a student by saying, “You’re doing great in class, but I think you could improve by participating more in group discussions.”

28. Point out flaws

To point out flaws means to identify weaknesses or imperfections in something or someone. It often involves bringing attention to areas that need improvement or could be problematic.

For example, “During the meeting, the manager pointed out the flaws in our current marketing strategy and suggested changes.”
In a movie review, a critic might say, “While the film had its strengths, I couldn’t help but point out the flaws in the plot and character development.”
A friend might point out flaws in their friend’s outfit by saying, “I think those shoes don’t really go well with the rest of your outfit. Maybe try a different pair?”

29. Offer suggestions

To offer suggestions means to provide ideas or recommendations for improvement or consideration. It implies that the person offering the suggestions has thought about the issue or topic and has ideas on how to make it better.

For instance, “During the brainstorming session, everyone was encouraged to offer suggestions for the new project.”
In a group discussion about a problem, someone might say, “I think we should offer suggestions on how to solve this issue instead of just pointing out the problems.”
A customer might offer suggestions to a restaurant by saying, “I really enjoyed my meal, but I have a few suggestions on how you could make it even better.”

30. Evaluate critically

To evaluate critically means to analyze and assess something with a discerning eye, looking for strengths, weaknesses, and areas of improvement. It involves a thoughtful and thorough examination of the subject.

For example, “As a film critic, it’s my job to evaluate critically the performances, direction, and overall quality of a movie.”
In a book review, a reader might say, “I always try to evaluate critically the themes, writing style, and character development in a novel.”
A teacher might evaluate critically a student’s essay by providing feedback on the structure, argument, and use of evidence.

31. Evaluate negatively

This is a slang term used to describe the act of evaluating something in a negative or derogatory manner. It implies that the evaluation is harsh and dismissive, often implying that the subject of the evaluation is of low quality or unworthy of praise.

For example, someone might say, “I watched that movie last night and it was straight trash.”
In a discussion about a new album, a person might comment, “I listened to it and thought it was complete trash.”
Another might say, “The professor trashed my essay with negative comments.”

32. Provide a critique

This slang term refers to the act of providing a thorough and often harsh critique of something. It implies that the critique is detailed and extensive, potentially highlighting numerous flaws or areas for improvement.

For instance, a person might say, “I asked my friend to rip apart my writing and give me honest feedback.”
In a workshop setting, someone might comment, “I’m looking for someone to rip apart my artwork and help me improve.”
A teacher might tell a student, “Don’t be afraid to rip apart your own work and find ways to make it better.”