el blanco de críticas
Lemma Details
Translation: the target of criticism; the subject of criticism; the focus of criticism
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This Spanish phrase combines 'el blanco' (the target) with 'de críticas' (of criticisms). 'Blanco' originally meant 'white' but extended metaphorically to mean 'target' from the white center of archery targets. The phrase creates a vivid image of someone or something that receives multiple criticisms, like arrows hitting a target.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 40%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
El gobierno se ha convertido en el blanco de críticas por su manejo de la crisis.
The government has become the target of criticism for its handling of the crisis.
La nueva política educativa ha sido el blanco de críticas desde su implementación.
The new education policy has been the subject of criticism since its implementation.
El director se convirtió en el blanco de críticas después del fracaso de la película.
The director became the focus of criticism after the failure of the movie.
Mnemonics
- Think of a white target (blanco) with criticism arrows hitting it
- Imagine a bullseye with the word 'críticas' written all over it
- Picture someone standing in front of a white wall (blanco) with criticism being thrown at them like paint
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is commonly used in Spanish media, politics, and public discourse when discussing public figures or institutions that are being widely criticized. It's a standard way to describe someone or something that is receiving significant negative attention.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'el blanco de críticas' refers to being the target of criticism (often serious or substantive), 'el blanco de burlas' means being the target of mockery or ridicule (more about making fun of someone).
Confused word:
El estudiante nuevo fue el blanco de burlas por su acento.
The new student was the target of mockery for his accent.
Notes: Both phrases use the target metaphor but differ in the type of negative attention received.
Mnemonic: Críticas = critique (serious analysis), burlas = bullying (making fun)
Explanation: 'El blanco de críticas' specifically refers to receiving criticism, while 'en el punto de mira' (in the crosshairs/sights) can mean being scrutinized, targeted, or under observation, not necessarily being criticized.
Confused word:
La empresa está en el punto de mira de los reguladores.
The company is under scrutiny from regulators.
Notes: Both involve being targeted, but 'en el punto de mira' suggests potential future action rather than current criticism.
Mnemonic: 'Blanco de críticas' has arrows of criticism already hitting, while 'punto de mira' just has the targeting sight on you (but hasn't fired yet).