critically

B2 · Upper Intermediate Medicine

adv. in a way that is very serious or dangerous, especially regarding health.

adv. to a level of extreme danger or crisis; often used in medical contexts to describe a patient's unstable condition.

“Two people were critically injured in the car accident last night.”

“The patient remains critically ill in the intensive care unit, though doctors noted a slight improvement in his respiratory function this morning.”

C1 · Advanced Formal

adv. to a very high degree, especially when something is necessary for success.

adv. to a decisive or crucial degree; used to emphasize that something is essential for a particular outcome.

“It is critically important that we finish this project by Tuesday.”

“The success of the mission depends critically on the timing of the satellite deployment during the narrow launch window.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adv. in a way that relates to the opinions of professional reviewers or critics.

adv. from the perspective of professional critics or reviewers, particularly regarding the arts.

“The film was critically acclaimed but did not make much money at the box office.”

“While the novel was critically panned upon its initial release, it has since gained a massive cult following among younger readers.”