METACRITIC Meaning and
Definition
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Metacritic is a website and online platform used to analyze and aggregate critical reviews and ratings of various forms of media, including video games, movies, music albums, and television shows. It serves as a comprehensive resource for consumers to evaluate the overall quality and reception of a particular media item by compiling scores and reviews from multiple reputable sources.
The primary function of Metacritic is to assign a numeric score to each media item based on the aggregated reviews it receives. This score provides users with a quick and quantifiable assessment of the media's quality, allowing them to make informed decisions about whether to engage with the content. Additionally, the website often includes excerpts from critics' reviews, giving users further insights into the reasons behind the assigned scores.
Metacritic employs a specific methodology for calculating its scores, which varies depending on the type of media being reviewed. In general, it assigns more weight to prominent critics and reputable publications, aiming to provide a well-rounded representation of critical consensus. Its scoring system typically ranges from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating a more positive reception.
The website also features user reviews, allowing individuals to contribute their own opinions and ratings to the overall score. However, these user scores are usually separated from the critic scores to differentiate between professional evaluations and audience perspectives.
In summary, Metacritic is an influential platform that offers a centralized hub for the aggregation and analysis of critical reviews and ratings across various forms of media. It aims to provide consumers with a useful tool for assessing the quality and reception of a particular media item, helping them make more informed choices about their entertainment preferences.
Etymology of METACRITIC
The word "Metacritic" is a combination of two words: "meta" and "critic".
The term "meta" originates from the Greek word "metá" meaning "beyond" or "after". In English, the prefix "meta-" is commonly used to refer to something that is self-referential or goes beyond itself to analyze or comment on something. It often indicates a higher level of abstraction or an analysis of something from a different perspective.
The term "critic" comes from the Latin word "criticus", which itself derives from the Greek word "kritikós", meaning "able to judge". A critic is someone who evaluates, analyzes, and expresses opinions on various forms of art, literature, performance, or other subjects.
Therefore, the word "Metacritic" is a blend of these two elements, signifying a platform or system that goes beyond or transcends mere criticism.
