What does animadversion mean?
Animadversion is a noun denoting criticism or censure — typically an adverse or unfavourable remark directed at a person, work, or course of action. The term derives from the Latin verb 'animadvertere', meaning to turn the mind or attention toward something, which came to imply noticing faults and expressing disapproval of them. In modern English it survives chiefly as a formal, literary word: reviewers, scholars, and legal writers may pass 'animadversions' upon a book, an argument, or a public figure's conduct. Its tone is usually weighty and authoritative rather than casually dismissive, suggesting considered judgement rather than mere complaint. Because the plural 'animadversions' naturally covers a series of critical remarks, the word often appears in phrases such as 'animadversions upon' its target. Though rare in everyday conversation, animadversion remains useful for anyone seeking a precise, dignified way to describe pointed criticism, and it rewards readers of older texts where it appears far more frequently than it does today.
nounAnimadversion is criticism or censure, especially a critical remark or adverse comment directed at someone or something. It denotes the act of expressing disapproval, often in formal or literary contexts.
- Criticism or censure; an adverse or unfavourable remark, especially one made in a formal or literary context.
"The critic's animadversions on the novel were sharp but fair."
"His memoir drew fierce animadversions from reviewers who found it self-serving."
"The committee's report contained several animadversions upon the conduct of the inquiry."
The plural is the more common form in practice, used when referring to multiple critical remarks or a sustained body of censure.
"The preface was full of animadversions upon his rivals' scholarship."
Animadversion literally means 'to turn the mind toward' — so every harsh review you've ever read was, technically, just someone turning their mind your way.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of animadversion
Animadversion comes from the Latin verb 'animadvertere', formed from 'anima' (mind) plus 'advertere' (to turn toward), literally meaning to turn the mind toward a thing. In Latin usage this came to signify taking notice of something, particularly with a view to censuring it. The word passed into English in the late sixteenth or early seventeenth century, retaining that sense of critical notice. It shares its Latin root with related words such as 'animadvert' (the corresponding verb) and with other terms built on 'advertere', including 'advert' and 'version'.
Related word forms
How animadversion is actually used
Animadversion is a formal, somewhat literary word, now largely confined to scholarly writing, legal commentary, and elevated prose. It carries a connotation of authoritative, often severe disapproval rather than casual complaint. The plural form 'animadversions' is common when multiple criticisms are meant.
Easily confused with animadversion
Animadversion means criticism or censure, while innovation refers to the introduction of something new; they share no meaning despite both being formal English words.
Animadversion is criticism or adverse comment, whereas adversion (a rarer word) means turning attention toward something.