Synonyms/Hypernyms (Ordered by Estimated Frequency) of noun criticism

3 senses of criticism

Sense 1
criticism, unfavorable judgment -- (disapproval expressed by pointing out faults or shortcomings; "the senator received severe criticism from his opponent")
       => disapproval -- (the expression of disapproval)

Sense 2
criticism, critique -- (a serious examination and judgment of something; "constructive criticism is always appreciated")
       => critical appraisal, critical analysis -- (an appraisal based on careful analytical evaluation)

Sense 3
criticism, literary criticism -- (a written evaluation of a work of literature)
       => writing, written material, piece of writing -- (the work of a writer; anything expressed in letters of the alphabet (especially when considered from the point of view of style and effect); "the writing in her novels is excellent"; "that editorial was a fine piece of writing")