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
公言
こうげん (kōgen)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "public" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 公示 and 公言.
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, 公言 (こうげん (kōgen)) maps to "public declaration, open statement, professing" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to stating something openly and publicly, often with a sense of boldness, conviction, or defiance. It's not just a simple statement but one made for others to hear and acknowledge. 「隠さずに、おおっぴらに言うこと」を意味します。. 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 "公言"
彼は結婚することを公言した。
He publicly declared his intention to marry.
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.". "公言" represents "public declaration, open statement, professing".