Inklingo

How to Say "critique" in Spanish

English → Spanish

crítica

nounA2formal
Use 'crítica' when referring to a formal analysis or review, particularly of artistic works like movies, books, or performances, where an opinion or judgment is central.

Examples

Leí una crítica excelente de la nueva película de terror.

I read an excellent review of the new horror movie.

comentario

/koh-men-TAH-ree-oh//ko.menˈta.rjo/

nounB2formal
Use 'comentario' for a more detailed or explanatory discussion, often involving an in-depth review or commentary on a subject, which might be less about a judgment and more about explanation.
A focused illustration of a scholar wearing glasses, sitting at a wooden desk with a massive open book. The scholar is pointing intently at a passage in the book with a quill pen, symbolizing detailed analysis and explanation.

Examples

El experto ofreció un comentario exhaustivo sobre la nueva ley de impuestos.

The expert offered an exhaustive commentary on the new tax law.

Necesitas leer el comentario de texto antes de la clase de literatura.

You need to read the text commentary before the literature class.

Formal Use

When used in the sense of 'commentary,' it often appears with words like 'exhaustivo' (exhaustive) or 'profundo' (deep/profound).

Choosing Between 'Crítica' and 'Comentario'

Learners often confuse 'crítica' and 'comentario' because both can mean 'review.' Remember that 'crítica' is typically for a judgmental or opinion-based review (like a movie review), while 'comentario' suggests a more detailed, explanatory discussion.

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