指摘

• Reading: してき
• Romaji: shiteki
• Kanji breakdown: 指 (shi/yubi) — point, finger; 摘 (teki/tsumu) — pluck, pick out, identify
• Pronunciation: /ɕi.te.ki/

Meaning

Pointing out; indication; identification. The act of drawing attention to a specific problem, error, or point of significance.

A verbal noun used with する (指摘する, to point out). One of the most common formal verbs for identifying and bringing something to another's attention — whether a flaw, a risk, or a fact. It is neutral in register and can be used critically (pointing out an error) or constructively (highlighting an important consideration). 指摘を受ける (to receive a pointer/criticism) and 鋭い指摘 (a sharp observation) are common collocations.

Examples

1. 専門家による調査で、建設計画に複数の安全上の問題点が指摘された。 An expert investigation identified multiple safety issues in the construction plan.
2. 上司から業務上の改善すべき点を丁寧に指摘されたことで、大きな気づきを得た。 Being carefully shown areas for improvement at work by a superior led to a significant moment of self-awareness.
3. 彼女の鋭い指摘が議論の方向性を根本から変えることになった。 Her incisive observation fundamentally changed the direction of the discussion.

Usage Guide

Context: workplace, academic writing, journalism, daily life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Sino-Japanese compound. 指 means to point, 摘 means to pluck out or pick. Together they describe the action of reaching in and pulling out something specific for examination — a precise and deliberate act of identification.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal