feedback
FEED-bak
/ˈfiːd.bæk/
Information about reactions to a product, a person's performance of a task, etc., used as a basis for improvement.
In a professional setting, 'constructive feedback' is the gold standard—it identifies problems but also suggests solutions.
The story behind the word. The term originated in the 1920s in the field of electronics and radio, describing the return of a fraction of the output of a system to the input. It wasn't applied to human communication until after WWII.
Word relationships
- critique: A critique is a detailed analysis; feedback can be a simple reaction or comment.
Commonly confused with
- criticism: Criticism often focuses on what is wrong; feedback focuses on how to improve.
Word family
- feed (verb): To give food or information.
Collocations
- constructive feedback
- give feedback
- receive feedback
Example sentences
- "I appreciate your honest feedback on my presentation; it will help me improve for the next client meeting." Performance review.
- "We are gathering customer feedback to decide which features to add to the next version of the app." Product development.
Memory hook
Information that is 'fed' 'back' to the source. The loop of improvement.
When not to use
In technical audio contexts, 'feedback' refers to the screeching sound when a microphone is too close to a speaker.
Fun facts
- The concept of '360-degree feedback' involves getting reviews from your boss, your peers, and your subordinates.
Explore more words
give feedback, actionable, iterate, iteration, formative, take action
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