How Do You Spell HYPERCRITICISM?

Pronunciation: [hˌa͡ɪpəkɹˈɪtɪsˌɪzəm] (IPA)

Hypercriticism is spelled with five syllables: hy-per-crit-i-cism. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is hʌɪpərˈkrɪtəsɪzəm. The first syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound /ʌ/, as in the word "sun." The second syllable features the schwa sound /ə/, similar to the sound of the letter "a" in the word "about." The third and fourth syllables both have the vowel sound /ɪ/, as in the word "sit." The final syllable is pronounced with the schwa sound again. Hypercriticism is the act of excessive criticism or fault-finding.

HYPERCRITICISM Meaning and Definition

1. Hypercriticism refers to the act of excessively and unfairly criticizing or finding fault in something or someone. It is a form of excessive and exaggerated criticism that often focuses on minor or insignificant flaws to a disproportionate extent, potentially neglecting any positive or admirable qualities present. The essence of hypercriticism lies in the tendency to nitpick and scrutinize with extreme severity, often with the intention of discrediting or devaluing.

   In various contexts, hypercriticism can manifest itself differently. For example, in literary criticism, it refers to an overly critical approach towards works of literature, where the critics might excessively highlight the flaws, inconsistencies, or weaknesses of a particular text without acknowledging its merits or strengths. Similarly, in art, music, or film criticism, hypercriticism can involve an intense focus on minor imperfections or departures from conventional norms, rather than appreciating the artistic expression and creativity.

   Hypercriticism can also extend to interpersonal relationships. Individuals exhibiting hypercritical tendencies often find fault in others without considering their positive attributes or understanding their intentions. This excessive criticism can lead to strained relationships, feelings of inadequacy, and a lack of harmony.

   Ultimately, hypercriticism is characterized by its unbalanced and overly strict approach to assessment or judgment, lacking the necessary balance and fairness required to provide a comprehensive and constructive evaluation. It is important to distinguish hypercriticism from constructive criticism, as constructive criticism aims to provide feedback or suggestions for improvement without resorting to undue focus on minor flaws or personal attacks.

2. Excessive or ungenerous criticism.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for HYPERCRITICISM

• gypercriticism
• bypercriticism
• nypercriticism
• jypercriticism
• uypercriticism
• yypercriticism
• htpercriticism
• hgpercriticism
• hhpercriticism
• hupercriticism
• h7percriticism
• h6percriticism
• hyoercriticism
• hylercriticism
• hy-ercriticism
• hy0ercriticism
• hypwrcriticism
• hypsrcriticism
• hypdrcriticism

Etymology of HYPERCRITICISM

The word "hypercriticism" is derived from two root words: "hyper" and "criticism".

The word "hyper" comes from the Greek word "hyper", meaning "over" or "beyond". It is often used as a prefix in English to describe excessive or exaggerated qualities.

The word "criticism" comes from the Latin word "criticus", which in turn is derived from the Greek word "kritikos". "Kritikos" originally meant "able to discern or judge", indicating the act of making judgments or evaluations. In modern usage, "criticism" refers to the analysis, evaluation, or assessment of something.

When combined, "hypercriticism" refers to excessively or overly critical behavior, characterized by a tendency to find fault or flaws in a way that exceeds what would be considered normal or fair.

Plural form of HYPERCRITICISM is HYPERCRITICISMS