kritiseerima

Kritiseerima is an Estonian verb meaning to criticize, to evaluate and point out faults in a person, a work, a policy, or an idea. It is a transitive verb and is formed as a regular -ima verb, with the infinitive kritikse- rath? Actually, the standard form is kritiseerima, and it conjugates like other -ima verbs. In use, the verb takes a direct object, for example: ta kritiseerib filmi, meaning he criticizes the film.

Usage and nuance: Kritiseerima can carry neutral, negative, or constructive connotations depending on context. It commonly appears in discussions about art, media, politics, or performance when someone expresses disapproval or evaluates shortcomings. The term kriitika (criticism) and the noun kriitik (a critic) are related; kry itika is the broader noun for evaluative remarks, while konstruktiivne kriitika refers to constructive criticism. In some contexts speakers may prefer arvustama (to review) for a more neutral or evaluative sense.

Grammar notes: Like other Estonian infinitives ending in -ma, kritiseerima forms various tenses and moods through standard finite forms (present, past, conditional, etc.). The verb can take a person or thing as its object: ta kritiseerib õpetajat, ta kritiseerib ideed. Self-criticism is expressed with enesekritiseerima, formed similarly.

Related terms: kriitika (criticism), kriitik (critic), kriitiline (critical), arvustus (review).

Examples:

- Ta kritiseerib filmi süžeed ja näitlejatööd.

- See on konstruktiivne kriitika, mis aitab parandada tulevasi projekte.