Japanese meaning of 公明正大

Reading: AI

こうめいせいだい (koumei seidai)

English Translation:

Fair and square. / Just and upright.

Meaning & Cultural Context

Meaning:

To behave honestly and with integrity in all circumstances, making decisions fairly and without favoritism or deception. This attitude earns the trust and respect of others.

Cultural Context:

Often used in legal, political, and corporate contexts to promote transparency and integrity in Japan.

常に誠実で正直、公平な判断を心がけ、嘘やごまかしを一切しないこと。信頼を得られる立派な態度として高く評価されます。
法律、政治、企業活動の場で使われ、日本社会における透明性と誠実さの理念を示す。

Grammar & Learning Points

Grammar Point

• "Fair and square." / "Just and upright." = Used to describe someone or something that is fair, honest, and open.
• Often used in formal or official contexts.

Trap for English Speakers

Translating as "public, clear, right, big" is incorrect; use idiomatic English like "fair and square" or "just and upright."

Example

Basic Example

公明正大な判断を下すべきだ。

We should make a fair and square decision.

Applied Example

判定に迷いはない。審判は公明正大であった。

There was no hesitation in the call — the referee was fair and square.