批評

ひひょう

criticism, review, commentary

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Understanding 批評

The word 批評 (ひひょう) means "criticism" or "review" and is often used in contexts where someone evaluates or comments on something, such as a movie, book, or idea. It can be either positive or negative but often implies a thoughtful or analytical judgment.

Common Usage

批評 is frequently used in formal or semi-formal settings, such as in newspapers, academic discussions, or professional reviews. It is less casual than simply saying "comment" and usually involves some depth of analysis.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 批評を受ける: to receive criticism or review
  • 批評を書く: to write a critique or review
  • 批評する: to criticize or review

These phrases are common when discussing evaluations of creative works, performances, or ideas.

Nuances and Tips

When using 批評, the speaker often implies a careful and reasoned judgment rather than a casual or harsh complaint. Be careful not to confuse 批評 with 批判 (ひはん), which tends to have a stronger negative connotation of criticism or fault-finding.

Register

This word is appropriate in written and spoken Japanese, especially in contexts related to art, literature, media, and academic critique. It is not typically used in casual everyday conversation unless discussing reviews or critiques explicitly.

Example Sentences

このえいがはおおくのひひょうをうけたが、さんぴがわかれている。

This movie received a lot of criticism, but opinions are divided.

かれはぶんがくさくひんのひひょうをかくのがしごとだ。

His job is to write critiques of literary works.

ともだちのいけんにたいしてひひょうするのはむずかしい。

It's difficult to criticize a friend's opinion.