Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Public" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "public", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
公示
こうじ (kouji)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
人目
ひとめ (hitome)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "public" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 公示 and 人目.
In Japanese, 公示 (こうじ (kouji)) is typically associated with "public announcement, public notice" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A formal or official announcement made to the public, often legally binding or concerning public matters..
On the other hand, 人目 (ひとめ (hitome)) maps to "public gaze, public notice, attention of others" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to what other people see, think, or notice. Often used in expressions related to being self-conscious. A literal translation of "public" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "公示"
新しい法律が公示された。
The new law was publicly announced.
Bilingual Context for "人目"
人目を気にせず、自分の好きなことをするべきだ。
You should do what you like without caring about what others think.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "新しい法律が ＿＿＿ された。" (Meaning: "The new law was publicly announced.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "公示" fits here because it means "public announcement, public notice" in the context of: "The new law was publicly announced.". "人目" represents "public gaze, public notice, attention of others".