批判

• Reading: ひはん
• Romaji: hihan
• Kanji breakdown: 批 (hi) — criticize, comment; 判 (han) — judge
• Pronunciation: /hi.haɴ/

Meaning

Criticism; censure. The act of expressing disapproval or finding fault with someone or something.

A noun that functions as a suru verb (批判する). Carries a somewhat negative connotation — closer to censure than constructive feedback. Frequently appears in media, politics, and public discourse. 批判的 (critical in attitude) is a common na-adjective. Stronger and more disapproving than 批評 (which focuses on analytical evaluation).

Examples

1. 政府の政策に対して国民から批判が集まった。 Criticism from the public mounted against the government's policies.
2. 人の失敗を批判するのは簡単だ。 It's easy to criticize other people's mistakes.
3. その映画は批判的な意見が多かった。 That movie received a lot of critical opinions.

Usage Guide

Context: media, politics, public discourse

Tone: serious

Origin & History

Compound of 批 (hi, criticize/comment) and 判 (han, judge). Together, 'commenting with judgment' — evaluating something critically.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal