Verb
/kɾi.ti.ˈkaɾ/
The verb "criticar" in Spanish means to express disapproval of someone or something, usually by pointing out faults or shortcomings. It is commonly used in both oral and written contexts, especially in academic reviews, media criticism, and everyday conversation. The frequency of use is high, especially in discussions surrounding art, literature, social issues, or personal behavior.
Es fácil criticar a los demás, pero es más difícil mirarse a uno mismo.
It's easy to criticize others, but it’s harder to look at oneself.
Muchos críticos consideran que su último libro es difícil de criticar debido a su profundidad.
Many critics find that his latest book is hard to criticize due to its depth.
No deberías criticar sin conocer todos los hechos.
You shouldn’t criticize without knowing all the facts.
The verb "criticar" forms part of several idiomatic expressions in Spanish, often emphasizing the act of expressing an opinion or judgment on various subjects.
La periodista comenzó a criticar con sorna la actuación del gobierno.
(The journalist began to criticize the government's performance sarcastically.)
Criticar desde la barrera
To criticize from the sidelines
Es fácil criticar desde la barrera cuando no estás involucrado en la situación.
(It's easy to criticize from the sidelines when you’re not involved in the situation.)
No hay que criticar sin haberlo vivido
You shouldn’t criticize without having experienced it
No hay que criticar sin haberlo vivido; cada uno tiene su propia historia.
(You shouldn’t criticize without having experienced it; everyone has their own story.)
Criticar la paja en el ojo ajeno
To criticize the splinter in someone else's eye
The word "criticar" originates from the grеek word "κριτικός" (kritikos), meaning "able to discern" or "to judge," which evolved through Latin "criticus." The term was integrated into Spanish during the Renaissance, coinciding with the increased interest in literature and art critique.