公共

こうきょう

public, community, communal

JLPT N2

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"公共" (gōnggòng) refers to something that is public or shared by all people, such as facilities, services, or spaces. It often describes things that are accessible or intended for the community rather than private use.

Common Contexts

You will frequently see "公共" used with nouns like "汽车" (bus), "环境" (environment), "图书馆" (library), and "设施" (facilities). It emphasizes the collective ownership or use.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 公共汽车: public bus, a common mode of transportation for everyone.
  • 公共环境: public environment, referring to shared spaces like parks or streets.
  • 公共设施: public facilities, such as restrooms, benches, or playgrounds.

Usage Notes

"公共" is a formal term often used in written and spoken Chinese when discussing social services or shared resources. It contrasts with "私人" (private). Avoid confusing it with "公众" which means "the public" as people rather than things or services.

Summary

Use "公共" when talking about things meant for general use or benefit, especially in contexts like transportation, environment, and community services.

Example Sentences

The public bus starts running every morning at seven o'clock.

We should protect the public environment and not litter.

The public library offers free book borrowing services.