Critical | Mean of critical in English Dictionary

/ˈkrɪtɪkəl/

• expressing criticism or disapproval
1. You're always so critical.
2. They are often critical of the mayor's policies. [=they often criticize the mayor's policies]
• of or relating to the judgments of critics about books, movies, art, etc.
1. The book received much critical acclaim. [=many critics said good things about the book]
2. critical writings/theory
3. The movie was a critical success [=critics liked the movie], but it didn't make much money.
• using or involving careful judgment about the good and bad parts of something
1. The program presents a critical analysis of the government's strategies.
2. She has a talent for critical thinking.
3. We need to look at these proposed changes with a critical eye before we accept them.

• extremely important
1. We have reached a critical phase of the experiment.
2. It is absolutely critical [=vital, essential] for us to remain together.
3. This is a matter of critical importance to the future of our country.
• relating to or involving a great danger of death
1. He suffered critical injuries in the accident.
2. The patient is in critical condition. = The patient is critical. [=the patient is very sick or injured and may die]
3. a nurse who specializes in critical care [=the care of patients who are in critical condition]
4. patients who are on the critical list
5. a government program that is on the critical list [=that is in danger of failing or being eliminated]