書評

• Reading: しょひょう
• Romaji: shohyou
• Kanji breakdown: 書 (sho) — writing, book; 評 (hyou) — evaluate, critique, comment
• Pronunciation: /ɕo.çoː/

Meaning

Book review. A critical evaluation or commentary on a published book.

A noun referring to a written critique or review of a book. Common in literary and academic circles: 書評を書く (to write a book review), 書評欄 (book review column), 書評家 (book reviewer/critic). Found in newspapers, literary magazines, and online platforms. Distinguished from 感想文 (kansou-bun, a personal impression essay) — 書評 implies a more critical, analytical evaluation.

Examples

1. この小説は新聞の書評で高く評価された。 This novel received high praise in newspaper book reviews.
2. 有名な書評家がその本を厳しく批判した。 A well-known book reviewer harshly criticized the book.
3. 書評を読んでから本を買うかどうか決める。 I decide whether to buy a book after reading reviews.

Usage Guide

Context: literature, media, academic

Tone: analytical

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 書 (sho, writing/book) + 評 (hyou, evaluate/critique/comment). Literally 'book evaluation' — a straightforward compound for critical commentary on written works.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated