🦅 Project Eagle
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

公募

こうぼ (kōbo)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "public" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 公示 and 公募. 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, 公募 (こうぼ (kōbo)) maps to "public offering, open recruitment" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to inviting applications or submissions from the general public for a position, project, or share issuance.. 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 "公募"
市は新しいキャラクターデザインを公募している。
The city is openly recruiting designs for a new character.

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.". "公募" represents "public offering, open recruitment".