Translation guide
Expressing criticism or pointing out flaws in English often involves direct statements, but Japanese requires careful attention to social harmony. This guide covers natural ways to criticize, complain, or point out faults, ranging from indirect hints to direct accusations.
To indicate that something is wrong or not up to standard, often in a work or task context.
A neutral, common way to say 'point out a mistake'. Suitable for workplace or formal settings.
上司に資料のミスを指摘された。
My boss pointed out a mistake in the document.
Literally 'make someone correct a mistake'. Implies a more active role in fault-finding and correction.
彼は部下の間違いを厳しく直させる。
He strictly makes his subordinates correct their mistakes.
Idiom meaning to find fault with minor details, often in a nitpicking or petty way. Can be negative.
彼はいつも人の揚げ足を取ってばかりいる。
He's always nitpicking other people's mistakes.
To express dissatisfaction with someone's actions or personality traits.
The most common way to say 'complain'. Can be used for both serious and trivial complaints.
彼はいつも給料に文句を言っている。
He's always complaining about his salary.
Means 'criticize'. More formal and often used for serious or constructive criticism.
政府の政策を批判する記事が新聞に載った。
An article criticizing the government's policy appeared in the newspaper.
Stronger than 批判する, implying blame or condemnation. Often used in public or formal accusations.
彼の不正行為は厳しく非難された。
His misconduct was severely condemned.
To describe a person who constantly finds faults, often in a petty or annoying way.
Adjective meaning 'nagging' or 'fault-finding'. Describes someone who constantly complains or criticizes.
うちの母は口うるさくて、何をしても文句を言う。
My mother is so nagging; she complains no matter what I do.
Means to scold or find fault in a nagging way, often used for parents or superiors.
父は帰りが遅いとすぐ小言を言う。
My father scolds me as soon as I come home late.
Noun meaning 'fault-finding' or 'looking for flaws'. Often used when someone is deliberately seeking out mistakes.
To refer to a systematic examination for faults, such as in quality control.
General term for inspection, examination, or testing. Used in technical and medical contexts.
製品の出荷前に厳しい検査が行われる。
Strict inspections are carried out before the products are shipped.
Means 'inspection' or 'check-up', often for maintenance or safety. Implies a detailed check.
Business/engineering term meaning 'identifying defects' or 'flaw detection'. Used in project management.
テスト段階で不具合の洗い出しを行う。
We identify defects during the testing phase.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'fault-finding'. Translating it literally as 欠点探し (けってんさがし) is possible but sounds unnatural in most contexts. Instead, use the phrases above depending on the situation.
文句 (もんく) is for everyday complaints. 批判 (ひはん) is for objective criticism, often constructive. 非難 (ひなん) is for strong blame or condemnation. Choose based on severity and formality.
ただの文句だよ。気にしないで。
It's just a complaint. Don't worry about it.
建設的な批判は歓迎します。
Constructive criticism is welcome.
彼の行動は非難されて当然だ。
His actions deserve to be condemned.
彼女はいつも人のあら探しばかりしている。
She's always finding fault with others.
機械の定期点検を怠ってはいけない。
You must not neglect regular inspections of the machinery.