noun
subtle criticism through wording; indirect condemnation; veiled judgment
Refers to a writing technique where a seemingly trivial or indirect cause is presented as leading to a significant effect, thereby implying a value judgment without explicit statement. Originates from the classical Chinese historical text 'Spring and Autumn Annals' (春秋), known for its concise and morally charged phrasing.
彼の記事は春秋の筆法で、事実を淡々と述べながら強い批判を含んでいた。
His article used the 'Spring and Autumn' style of writing, presenting facts calmly while containing strong criticism.
この歴史書は春秋の筆法を用いて、権力者の失政を暗に非難している。
This history book employs the 'Spring and Autumn' technique to implicitly condemn the ruler's misgovernment.
From the Chinese classic 'Spring and Autumn Annals' (春秋), attributed to Confucius, which is said to use subtle wording to convey praise or blame. The phrase entered Japanese as a set expression for this indirect critical style.