Meaning
批评 means to point out faults or shortcomings in someone or something, or the act of criticism itself. It can range from constructive feedback to harsh censure. The word carries a somewhat negative connotation, though it can be used in contexts of helpful critique.
Usage
批评 is commonly used in educational, workplace, and interpersonal contexts. When used as a verb, it typically takes a direct object (批评某人 'to criticize someone'). Chinese culture traditionally values harmony, so direct criticism may be softened with phrases like 善意的批评 (well-intentioned criticism) or delivered privately rather than publicly.
Examples
- 01老师批评了那个上课睡觉的学生。.The teacher criticized the student who slept in class.
- 02我们应该虚心接受别人的批评。.We should humbly accept others' criticism.
Characters
Common collocations
- 批评教育to criticize and educate
- 接受批评to accept criticism
- 严厉批评to criticize severely
- 自我批评self-criticism
Antonyms
Origin
Both characters relate to making judgments or comments. 批 originally meant 'to slap' or 'strike,' which extended to the idea of striking down wrong ideas. 评 means to evaluate or discuss, combining to form a word about critical evaluation.