Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Criticize" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "criticize", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
批判する
ひはんする (hihansuru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
批評する
ひひょうする (hihyousuru)
B2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "criticize" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 批判する and 批評する.
In Japanese, 批判する (ひはんする (hihansuru)) is typically associated with "to criticize, to denounce" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents 他人の意見や行為、物事の欠点などを指摘し、評価を下すこと。しばしば否定的な意味合いで使われます。To point out shortcomings and evaluate others' opinions, actions, or things, often used with a negative connotation..
On the other hand, 批評する (ひひょうする (hihyousuru)) maps to "to criticize, to review" (Syllabus Level: B2) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR B2 vocabulary syllabus.. A literal translation of "criticize" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "批判する"
彼は政府の政策を厳しく批判した。
He severely criticized the government's policy.
Bilingual Context for "批評する"
毎日、日本語を練習するために批評する。
Every day, I criticize, to review to practice Japanese.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は政府の政策を厳しく批判した。" (Meaning: "He severely criticized the government's policy.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "批判する" fits here because it means "to criticize, to denounce" in the context of: "He severely criticized the government's policy.". "批評する" represents "to criticize, to review".