Critical -
#11
Super Member
Join Date: Aug 2013
Posts: 9,299
Context is key. Technically the word "critical" has multiple meanings, and I think all involve some aspect of negativity.
Critical thinking skills are most definitely positive. The ability to analyze the pros and cons is something that can be taught. But there again, analyzing the cons is part of the skill (the negative parts of a situation, proposition, piece of literature, etc).
Critical care--needed for patients who would certainly die without it (and might, in spite of it)
critical spirit---harsh, fault-finding, unable to see the good in someone or something
Oftentimes the words "criticize" is misused for the word "critique." If I asked to be critiqued on something (my work ,my outfit, my writing) I am asking for both positive and negative feedback. No one in his right mind asks for criticism. By the same token, if someone asks for "constructive criticism," he or she should be ready to accept it, regardless if it feels more critical than constructive. Not everyone knows how to be tactful.
Critical thinking skills are most definitely positive. The ability to analyze the pros and cons is something that can be taught. But there again, analyzing the cons is part of the skill (the negative parts of a situation, proposition, piece of literature, etc).
Critical care--needed for patients who would certainly die without it (and might, in spite of it)
critical spirit---harsh, fault-finding, unable to see the good in someone or something
Oftentimes the words "criticize" is misused for the word "critique." If I asked to be critiqued on something (my work ,my outfit, my writing) I am asking for both positive and negative feedback. No one in his right mind asks for criticism. By the same token, if someone asks for "constructive criticism," he or she should be ready to accept it, regardless if it feels more critical than constructive. Not everyone knows how to be tactful.
Last edited by zozee; 04-27-2018 at 03:46 PM. Reason: duplicate post
#13
Super Member
Join Date: May 2013
Location: Ballwin, MO
Posts: 4,269
'Critical' hasn't acquired a negative connotation, but it has a negative connotation as its first meaning. I look at my own work with a very critical eye, and I assume most people do the same with their own work, but pointing out the flaws in someone else's work is another matter. If someone shows me their quilt, I assume they're expecting appreciation for what they accomplished. I would only point out flaws in someone else's work if they specifically asked me to do so, and even then I would tread lightly.
#14
Super Member
Join Date: May 2012
Location: Central Wisconsin
Posts: 4,391
I think you meant conscientious. Which is to do something according to conscience; scrupulous. We'll blame that on auto-correct, and I love your post. The one who has the right to be critical is the judge, and they usually find something good to mention along with pointing out what could be improved. That's what they are there for.
#15
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2011
Posts: 659
I think you meant conscientious. Which is to do something according to conscience; scrupulous. We'll blame that on auto-correct, and I love your post. The one who has the right to be critical is the judge, and they usually find something good to mention along with pointing out what could be improved. That's what they are there for.
#18
[QUOTE=bearisgray;8048383]I think this word has acquired a negative connotation -
I think you're right. It doesn't quite imply critique which I think is very helpful if done in the right spirit. Who of us wants to be known as the Quilt Police?
I think you're right. It doesn't quite imply critique which I think is very helpful if done in the right spirit. Who of us wants to be known as the Quilt Police?
#19
Super Member
Join Date: May 2012
Location: Florida
Posts: 1,585
I haven't seen the thread for a special board for offering Constructive criticism -- I don't think that is a good idea -- it smells too much like online sites broadcasting "teen bullying" and has been known to result in serious negative psychological impact on young teens and others. Even if I were qualified, which I know I'm not, being a rank amateur, I would not want to participate on such a board, in any capacity. Sorry -- JMHO
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