PhraseNinja

Yojijukugo

Japanese meaning of 公明正大

Reading:

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.
日本語で読む
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。

Cultural Context:

Often used in legal, political, and corporate contexts to promote transparency and integrity in Japan.
日本語で読む
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.<br>• Often used in formal or official contexts.
日本語で読む
• 公平・公正・正直な様子を指し、公的な場面でもよく使われる。

Trap for English Speakers

Translating as "public, clear, right, big" is incorrect; use idiomatic English like "fair and square" or "just and upright."
日本語で読む
「public, clear, right, big」のような直訳では意味が伝わらないため、「fair and square」や「just and upright」などの慣用表現を使う。

Example

Example 1Basic Example

  1. 公明正大な判断を下すべきだ。

    We should make a fair and square decision.

Example 2Applied Example

  1. 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.

Quick check

Meaning

What does 「公明正大」 mean?

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