How to Pronounce Critical

To pronounce "critical", say CRIT-ic-al — 3 syllables, IPA /ˈkɹɪtɪkəl/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

critical

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Accent

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3

Syllables

8

Letters

/ˈkɹɪtɪkəl/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “critical”

"critical" has 3 syllables: crit-ic-al. It rhymes with analytical and hypocritical, if that helps it stick.

What does critical mean?

noun

  1. A critical value, factor, etc.
  2. In breakdancing, a kind of airflare move in which the dancer hops from one hand to the other.

adjective

  1. Inclined to find fault or criticize

    “A good teacher is fair but critical.”

  2. Pertaining to, or indicating, a crisis or turning point.

    “This is a critical moment.”

Synonyms

captiouscensoriousexactingfastidious

Words that rhyme with critical

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

analyticalhypocriticalpoliticalapoliticaldiacriticalhypercriticaluncriticalgeopoliticalnonpolitical

Related words

faultfindingcensorioushypercriticalpettifoggingquibblingdangerouscavilingvituperative

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "critical"?▾

"Critical" has 3 syllables: crit · ic · al.

What is the IPA transcription of "critical"?▾

The IPA transcription of "critical" is /ˈkɹɪtɪkəl/.

What does "critical" mean?▾

Critical: A critical value, factor, etc.

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