recensie

Recensie is a critical review of a creative or cultural work, typically published in newspapers, magazines, or online media. The purpose is to inform readers about the work and to evaluate its quality. A recensie usually combines a brief synopsis or description of the work with an analysis of its elements and a final assessment.

Domains include literature, film, theatre, music, visual arts, and exhibitions. In Dutch media, a recensie is distinct from a news report or feature; it presents a critical perspective rather than an objective account, though it should be grounded in evidence from the work and its context.

Typical structure: bibliographic details (title, author/artist, publication date, venue), a concise description of the work, analysis of form, style, performance or production, and an evaluative verdict or recommendation. Some recensions include a rating, but practices vary by publication. Because it engages with creative expression, writers aim for justification and fairness, citing specific passages or aspects to support judgments.

Etymology: The term recensie derives from Latin recensio, via French récension, and has been adopted into Dutch to denote a written critical assessment of a work. In Dutch-speaking regions, recensie remains a common species of media critique, influencing audience perception and, at times, the reception of the work discussed.