检讨

jiǎn tǎo

to examine or inspect

HSK 6

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word "检讨" (jiǎn tǎo) primarily means "to examine" or "to inspect" something carefully. It is often used in formal or academic contexts when reviewing or analyzing a situation, event, or problem.

Additionally, "检讨" carries a strong connotation of self-criticism or self-reflection, especially in contexts where someone admits mistakes or reflects on their behavior. This usage is common in educational or organizational settings where individuals are expected to acknowledge faults and improve.

Common Collocations

  • 检讨原因 (examine the reasons): Used when analyzing causes of an event or problem.
  • 检讨 (make a self-criticism): Often used when someone admits their mistakes.
  • 检讨 (write a self-reflection essay): A formal way to express remorse or reflection, especially in schools.

Usage Notes

When used to mean "examine," "检讨" is more formal and analytical than simply "" or "检查." When used as "self-criticism," it implies a serious and sincere reflection, often with a tone of responsibility.

Avoid confusing "检讨" with "讨论" (to discuss), as the latter focuses on exchanging ideas rather than reviewing or reflecting.

Register and Tone

"检讨" is generally formal and used in written or official spoken contexts. The self-criticism sense can carry a serious or even solemn tone, especially in institutional settings.

Example Sentences

我们需要检讨这次项目失败的原因。

Wǒmen xūyào jiǎntǎo zhè cì xiàngmù shībài de yuányīn.

We need to examine the reasons for this project's failure.

他在会上做了深刻的检讨,承认了自己的错误。

Tā zài huì shàng zuòle shēnkè de jiǎntǎo, chéngrènle zìjǐ de cuòwù.

He made a deep self-criticism at the meeting and admitted his mistakes.

老师要求学生写一篇检讨书,反思自己的行为。

Lǎoshī yāoqiú xuéshēng xiě yī piān jiǎntǎo shū, fǎnsī zìjǐ de xíngwéi.

The teacher asked the student to write a self-reflection essay to think