Quick answer
公 is the kanji for "Public". A common reading is おおやけ (ooyake). You can also practice writing it on this page.
Meaning
Public
Also : Prince · Official
Learn 公 with SRS
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Readings
kun = Japanese reading · on = Chinese reading
Practice writing
Trace the kanji stroke by stroke with a visual guide.
Stroke Order
4 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 公 represents 'PUBLIC'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of public.
On-reading: こう — sounds like 'ko' in 'coat'. Kun-reading: おおやけ.
Example Sentences
公共バスで行きます。
こうきょうばすでいきます。
I'll go by public bus.
公園でピクニックをしました。
こうえんでぴくにっくをしました。
I had a picnic at the park.
Vocabulary using 公
Grammar to study at this level
Last updated Jun 18, 2026
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