critical

Of the greatest importance; at a decisive stage; expressing or involving careful judgment about faults and merits.

• criticism/ˈkrɪtɪsɪzəm/(n)批评；评论
• criticize/ˈkrɪtɪsaɪz/(v)批评
• critically/ˈkrɪtɪkli/(adv)批判性地；关键性地

• critical thinking
• critical point
• critical success factor
• critically important
• critical role
• at a critical stage

1. 1.This is a critical moment for the company — the decisions made in the next quarter will shape the next five years.
2. 2.Students are encouraged to read critically rather than accepting all sources at face value.

• crucial/ˈkruːʃəl/— extremely important
• vital/ˈvaɪtəl/— essential
• analytical/ˌænəˈlɪtɪkəl/— involving careful analysis

from Latin "criticus," from Greek "kritikos" (able to discern)