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
公序良俗
こうじょりょうぞく (koujoryouzoku)
C2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "public" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 公示 and 公序良俗.
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, 公序良俗 (こうじょりょうぞく (koujoryouzoku)) maps to "public order and morals" (Syllabus Level: C2) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR C2 vocabulary syllabus.. 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 "公序良俗"
私は公序良俗に興味があります。
I am interested in public order and morals.
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.". "公序良俗" represents "public order and morals".