HYPERCRITIC Meaning and
Definition
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A hypercritic, sometimes referred to as an overcritical person, is someone who habitually engages in excessive or extreme criticism. This term is often used to describe individuals who consistently find faults, negativities, or flaws even in the tiniest details of various subjects, whether it be people, ideas, works of art, literature, or any other topic under scrutiny. Hypercritics tend to focus on the negative aspects rather than acknowledging the positive or constructive elements. They possess a strong inclination towards fault-finding, often emphasizing perceived shortcomings instead of providing balanced and fair evaluations.
Hypercritics typically adhere to extremely high standards and have a propensity to nitpick, magnify trivial flaws, or fabricate criticism where it may not be warranted. This excessive critical nature often stems from a deep-rooted skepticism and a desire to showcase their own judiciousness or intellectual superiority. However, hypercritics may also have a genuine passion for accuracy and improvement, although their approach might alienate or discourage others due to their relentless negative outlook.
While constructive criticism is an essential component of growth and development, hypercritics tend to cross the line into unnecessary fault-finding and an unyielding demand for perfection. Their critical disposition can create a hostile or discouraging environment, inhibiting creativity, motivation, or innovation. It is crucial to strike a balance between providing valuable feedback and maintaining a respectful and supportive atmosphere.
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• One who is critical beyond measure or reason.
• Unfairly severe or critical.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for HYPERCRITIC
- gypercritic
- bypercritic
- nypercritic
- jypercritic
- uypercritic
- yypercritic
- htpercritic
- hgpercritic
- hhpercritic
- hupercritic
- h7percritic
- h6percritic
- hyoercritic
- hylercritic
- hy-ercritic
- hy0ercritic
- hypwrcritic
- hypsrcritic
- hypdrcritic
Etymology of HYPERCRITIC
The word "hypercritic" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "hyper" and "kritikos".
The Greek root "hyper" means "over" or "beyond", often used to indicate excess or exaggeration. It can also imply superiority or intensity. For example, in English, we use the term "hyperactive" to describe someone who is excessively active.
The second root "kritikos" derives from the Greek word "kritikḗ", which means "criticism" or "judgment". It is based on the verb "krínein", which means "to judge". From this root, we have the English word "critic", which refers to an individual who evaluates or analyzes something, often expressing judgments or opinions.
