检讨 jiǎntǎo to examine or inspect
to examine or inspect; self-criticism; review
How to remember 检讨: 检 inspect + 讨 ask for = to examine or inspect.
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How it is used
- In Mainland usage, to self-criticize and review one's mistakes - 做检讨 (zuò jiǎntǎo) to make a self-criticism, 深刻检讨 to reflect deeply on faults.
- False friend: unlike English 'discuss/examine', it carries a confessional, own-your-fault tone. 写一份检讨 = write a letter of self-reproach.
- In Taiwan usage it leans more neutrally toward 'review/examine'. Mainland learners should feel the self-blame flavor.