Public Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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public
[ˈpʌblɪk ]
Definitions
in general use
Of or concerning the people as a whole.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| public |
Refers to things that are open or accessible to everyone. Often used in contexts related to society, government, or shared spaces.
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| general |
Broad or non-specific. Used to refer to widespread concepts or ideas without going into details.
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| common |
Describes something that is found frequently or shared by many people. Often used in contexts of shared attributes or widespread phenomena.
|
| collective |
Emphasizes a group or community working together or sharing something. Often used when discussing joint actions or shared responsibilities.
|
Examples of usage
- The public interest
- Public health
- Public opinion
in general use
The people in general.
Synonyms
community, population, society.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| public |
Use this word when referring to people in general, especially when they are considered as a group in a societal or civic sense. This term is often used in formal contexts such as government, policy, or media.
|
| population |
This term is typically used in a statistical or demographic context, referring to the number of people living in a specific area or belonging to a specific group. It can be used in scientific, economic, or healthcare discussions.
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| community |
This word is suitable when referring to a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common. It's often used to highlight a sense of belonging or collective identity.
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| society |
This word is used when talking about people living together in organized communities with shared laws, norms, and values. It’s often used in a broader sense to discuss cultural, social, or political frameworks.
|
Examples of usage
- The beach was open to the public
- The museum is free to the public
less common
Open to or shared by all the people of an area or country.
Examples of usage
- The park is open to the public
- The meeting is public
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Politics
- In democratic societies, 'public opinion' plays a crucial role in influencing government decisions.
- Public policies are frameworks developed by lawful authorities to govern community behavior.
- The concept of a 'public good' refers to resources or services accessible to all, like clean air.
Culture
- Public art installations, like murals or statues, reflect community voices and aesthetics.
- Public events, such as fairs or festivals, foster community spirit and cultural sharing.
- Public speaking is a skill valued across various cultures, vital for sharing ideas and inspiring others.
Science
- Public health focuses on protecting and improving the health of populations through education and policy.
- Public access to scientific research has increased in the digital age, promoting shared knowledge.
- Environmental studies often spotlight the importance of public involvement in sustainability efforts.
Media
- Public broadcasting provides news and entertainment funded by the government, aiming for unbiased reporting.
- Public relations is a strategic communication process that builds mutually beneficial relationships between organizations and the public.
- The rise of social media platforms has transformed how public discourse takes place, allowing immediate interaction and feedback.
Origin of 'public'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'publicus,' meaning 'of the people.'
- It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe community matters.
- Historically, it contrasts with 'private,' which refers to personal, individual spaces.
The word 'public' comes from the Latin word 'publicus' which means 'of the people'. It has been used in English since the 14th century. The concept of 'public' is essential in governance, law, and society, representing the collective interests of the people.