self-critical

adjective

self-crit·​i·​cal ˌself-ˈkri-ti-kəl 

: inclined to find fault with oneself : critical of oneself

a self-critical perfectionist

… helping patients identify and challenge pessimistic or self-critical thoughts that cause or perpetuate depression.

—Mary A. Whooley

Examples of self-critical in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Riley was considerably less self-critical when asked about his team’s offensive philosophy to start the game, even though the Trojans were held to just three points in the first two quarters. —Dylan Hernández, Los Angeles Times, 22 Sep. 2024

But another reason might be that Gadd’s self-critical approach to telling his story has stymied many of their attempts to sling mud. —Joe Utichi, Deadline, 7 Aug. 2024

The quarterback’s self-critical nature will never go away. —Dan Wiederer, Chicago Tribune, 28 July 2024

Self-compassion can be cultivated over time, by questioning self-critical narratives and affirming our very human emotional experiences. —Mark Travers, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2024

This can involve committing to self-care practices and challenging self-critical thoughts about not being worthy of affection. —Mark Travers, Forbes, 18 Feb. 2024

This drinking part may also come into contact with a self-critical or self-loathing part that wants to control the drinking. —Laura Newberry, Los Angeles Times, 19 Dec. 2023

Mirren is self-critical in the new ad campaign, too, which will also feature cameos from Idris Elba and Michael Cera in separate commercials. —Nigel Smith, Peoplemag, 15 Dec. 2023

Honesty is non-negotiable for Humberstone, whose songs verge on the deeply personal and often self-critical. —Ellise Shafer, Variety, 13 Oct. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined above