All words have more than one meaning but the main ones are the following: criticize: judge something or somebody by my own criteria, not clearly against it but that is implied. condemn: express strong disapproval over something, somebody or somebody's behavior, which can get to the point of punishment or other consequences . deplore: grieve or regret. But it does have also the meaning of strong disapproval that comes from grief, regret, displeasure or complains. denounce: officially terminate a relationship. Also: make known that you are against something or somebody's actions. As you can see, it depends on the meaning of the sentence which word you will use. Their meanings do have some common grounds, but within lies some difference which you need to consider before picking one over the other.

I would criticize your question but to flat out condemn would be deplorable! Don't denounce me just yet. Let me explain... :) I'll give you my definition, not so much a dictionary definition of each: Criticize: to find fault with something/someone and to tell them about it. Generally, criticism is negative in nature. In the US, we have a term called 'constructive criticism' which means you're asking someone to give you honest feedback even though it might not be what you want to hear (negative). ex: Criticize me all you'd like but i'm going to college regardless of what you say!! Condemn: To judge and to sentence someone to something. Another negative one. It brings on the sense of hopelessness and sadness. :( ex: You're condemned to live out the rest of your miserable existence in Hell! Deplore: I don't use this one very often but I think it means unattractive and undesirable. It's also negative in it' usages. ex: It's deplorable to hit your wife. (that's not a very good example... but it's the best i've got) Denounce: If you denounce someone, you call them out on something or challenge their authority. You're making a point or suggesting something that you feel is wrong with the thing you're denouncing. It's telling someone they're wrong! ex: I denounce your opinion!