What is the difference between "表" and "おもて"?

"表" means "front, surface, outside" (N3), whereas "おもて" represents "front; surface; outside" (N3).

Kanji Homophone Battle

Pronunciation Trap: "おもて (omote)"

Same sound, completely different Kanji! Choose the right conceptual writing.

Kanji Option A

おもて (omote)

N3 / CEFR

Kanji Option B

おもて (omote)

N3 / CEFR

In Japanese, many words share the exact same pronunciation "おもて (omote)" but are written with different Kanji, changing the meaning entirely.

表 (Level: N3): Translates to "front, surface, outside" and is used when Refers to the visible or outer side of something, contrasting with 裏.
おもて (Level: N3): Maps to "front; surface; outside" and carries the nuance of Refers to the visible or external side of something, or the front part of a place. Can also mean public or official. （物の外側や前面、または公の場を表す。）.

Mixing these up can easily result in unnatural writing. Look at the bilingual context cards below to master the conceptual boundaries!

Bilingual Context for "表"

コインの表と裏を見てください。

Please look at the front and back of the coin.

Bilingual Context for "おもて"

この箱のおもてに名前を書いてください。

Please write your name on the front of this box.

Which Kanji perfectly fits this blank space?

Which Kanji perfectly fits the blank: "コインの＿＿＿と裏を見てください。" (Meaning: "Please look at the front and back of the coin.")

🎉 Correct Answer!

Correct! "表" is used for "front, surface, outside" in the context: "Please look at the front and back of the coin.".