Meaning and Usage
"表" (おもて) primarily means "surface" or "front side." It refers to the outward or visible part of an object, often contrasted with "裏" (うら), meaning the back or reverse side.
Common Contexts
You will often see "表" used when talking about the front of physical objects like boxes, papers, or buildings. It also appears in expressions contrasting someone's outward appearance or behavior with their hidden side, such as "表と裏の顔" (public and private face).
Collocations and Patterns
- 表に (おもてに): "on the front/surface of" — used to specify location on the front side.
- 表と裏 (おもてとうら): "front and back" — used to contrast two sides or aspects.
- 表に出る (おもてにでる): "to appear in public" or "to come to the surface" — used figuratively.
Register and Nuance
"表" is a neutral, common word used in everyday conversation and writing. It is polite and standard, suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "表" (おもて) with "面" (おもて or めん), which can also mean surface or face but is used in different contexts, such as "顔の面" (face) or "問題の面" (aspect of a problem). Remember that "表" emphasizes the front or visible side, especially physically or socially.