Translation and Meaning of: 公開 - koukai

The Japanese word 公開 [こうかい] is a term that frequently appears in both formal and informal contexts, but its meaning can generate doubts for language learners. In this article, we will explore what this expression represents, how it is used in everyday Japanese, and what its cultural particularities are. If you have come across it in animes, news, or official documents, understanding its practical use can be essential to mastering the language.

In addition to unveiling the meaning of 公開, let's analyze its origin, examples of application in sentences, and even some curiosities about how the Japanese perceive this term. If you are looking for reliable information about this word, this guide will help you understand it clearly and directly, without unnecessary complications.

Meaning and usage of 公開 [こうかい]

Kōkai [公開] can be translated as "public disclosure" or "release to the public." It is used when something that was restricted becomes accessible to everyone, such as a newly released movie, government data, or even a new product. In Japan, it's common to see announcements like 「新作映画を公開します」 ("We will release a new film"), indicating that the work will be shown publicly.

The term also appears in digital contexts, such as when a company "opens" a service for public testing (公開テスト) or when information is made available on a website (データを公開する). The central idea is always the transition of something private or hidden to the public domain, whether partially or totally.

Origin and composition of kanji

The word 公開 is formed by two kanjis: 公 (こう), which means "public" or "official," and 開 (かい), which carries the meaning of "to open" or "to release." Together, they create the concept of "making something accessible to the public." This combination is not random – it reflects a common logic in Japanese, where kanjis unite to form more specific terms.

It is worth noting that 公開 is not an ancient word, but its use became established with the modernization of Japan, especially in bureaucratic and media contexts. Unlike other terms that underwent radical changes in meaning, 公開 has maintained its essence over the years, always connected to the idea of making something available to a larger group of people.

Common contexts and curiosities

In Japan, 公開 is often associated with cultural events. Cinemas announce 公開 dates for premieres, museums use the term for exhibitions, and even amusement parks employ it for new attractions. There is also 公開講座 (koukai kouza), which are lectures or courses open to the public, usually offered by universities.

An interesting fact is that although 公開 implies general access, there are often undeclared restrictions. For example, a "public event" may require prior registration or have limited spaces. This nuance is important for Japanese students, as it shows that not everything labeled as 公開 is necessarily free or unlimited in practice.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 公表 (Kouhyou) - Public dissemination of information; official announcement.
• 開示 (Kaiji) - Opening up information; making information available to the public.
• 公示 (Kouji) - Official publication; announcement to citizens about a decision or state.
• 公開示 (Koukai-shi) - Show publicly; the act of making something visible to the public (rarely used).
• 公開する (Koukai suru) - Make public; disseminate information.
• 公開すること (Koukai suru koto) - The act of making something public; the practice of disclosing information.

公開

Romaji: koukai
Kana: こうかい
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: presenting to the public

Meaning in English: presenting to the public

Definition: A state where information and things can be seen by anyone.

Example Sentences - (公開) koukai

See below some example sentences:

この文書は公開されています。

Kono bunsho wa kōkai sareteimasu

This document is publicly available.

This document has been published.

• この文書 - indicates that it is a specific document
• は - topic particle, indicating that what follows is the subject of the sentence
• 公開されています - verb meaning "to be publicly available", in the present tense and passive form
- full stop, indicating the end of the sentence