Context, delivery, and choice of words matter. For example:

* Give praise in public

* Criticize in private

* Any criticism offered should be constructive

* Any criticism offered should be of ideas and actions, not individuals--regardless of how strongly one may feel

* When in an argument, discussion, or debate, argue to the best possible interpretation of an idea or statement. Doing anything less is in bad faith, at which point you are not arguing to persuade but rather to make a point.

I'm sure there are many other such examples. I highlight criticism here as in my experience critical statements tend to be most often given or taken badly.