the mind > attention and judgement > judgement or decision > discernment, discrimination > criticism > play the critic [verb (intransitive)] > often unfavourably (3)
To make comments or remarks (on, upon). (Often implying unfavourable remarks.)
intransitive. To pass judgement on a person or thing; esp. to express a harsh or unfavourable opinion of a person or thing; to find fault.
intransitive. = comment, v. 3–5. rare.