Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Public" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "public", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
公開
こうかい (kōkai)
N3 / 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 公開 and 公募.
In Japanese, 公開 (こうかい (kōkai)) is typically associated with "public opening; making public; disclosure" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used when something previously private or restricted is made available for public viewing, access, or knowledge..
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 "公開"
この博物館は毎週月曜日が公開日です。
This museum is open to the public every Monday.
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: "この博物館は毎週月曜日が ＿＿＿ 日です。" (Meaning: "This museum is open to the public every Monday.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "公開" fits here because it means "public opening; making public; disclosure" in the context of: "This museum is open to the public every Monday.". "公募" represents "public offering, open recruitment".