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

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

estar en el punto de mira

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No translation

criticar

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No translation

ser criticado

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No translation

recibir críticas

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No translation

Synonyms

el objeto de críticas

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No translation

el centro de críticas

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No translation

el foco de críticas

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No translation

Antonyms

el objeto de elogios

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No translation

el receptor de alabanzas

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No translation

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

el blanco de burlas

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No translation

Commonality: 0%

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).

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)

en el punto de mira

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No translation

Commonality: 0%

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.

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).