Meaning
指责 means to point out someone's faults or mistakes in a critical way, often with a tone of disapproval or blame. It combines 指 (to point) and 责 (responsibility/blame), literally meaning 'to point at and blame.' It's stronger than simple criticism and implies holding someone accountable for wrongdoing.
Usage
指责 carries a negative connotation and is used when someone is being blamed or criticized, often harshly. It's commonly used in formal contexts, news reports, and serious discussions. Native speakers often pair it with prepositions like 对...指责 (to criticize someone) or 受到指责 (to receive criticism). It's more severe than 批评 (to criticize) but less formal than 谴责 (to condemn).
Examples
- 01他因为工作失误受到了上司的指责。.He received criticism from his boss because of a work mistake.
- 02我们不应该相互指责，而应该一起找解决办法。, .We shouldn't blame each other, but should find a solution together.
Characters
Common collocations
- 受到指责to receive criticism/blame
- 指责某人to blame someone
- 遭到指责to suffer criticism
- 相互指责to blame each other
Antonyms
Origin
The word combines 指 (finger/to point) with 责 (responsibility/blame), creating the image of pointing at someone while assigning blame or responsibility for a fault.