Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Opening" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "opening", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
開通
かいつう (kaitsuu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
公開
こうかい (kōkai)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "opening" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 開通 and 公開.
In Japanese, 開通 (かいつう (kaitsuu)) is typically associated with "opening (of a road, railway line, tunnel, etc. for public use)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Specifically refers to the commencement of public use for a newly constructed or previously closed transportation route.
On the other hand, 公開 (こうかい (kōkai)) maps to "opening to the public, public disclosure" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents To make something accessible or visible to the general public. A literal translation of "opening" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "開通"
新しい高速道路が来月開通する予定だ。
The new expressway is scheduled to open next month.
Bilingual Context for "公開"
この情報はまだ一般に公開されていません。
This information has not yet been disclosed to the public.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "新しい高速道路が来月 ＿＿＿ する予定だ。" (Meaning: "The new expressway is scheduled to open next month.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "開通" fits here because it means "opening (of a road, railway line, tunnel, etc. for public use)" in the context of: "The new expressway is scheduled to open next month.". "公開" represents "opening to the public, public disclosure".