Definitions
Etymology
Pictograph of a earthen jar for holding liquid, now written as 瓮. The current meaning "public" is a phonetic loan.
About
The character 公, relating to public, fair, or collective concepts, combines the component 八 (divide) above 厶 (private). This structure depicts setting aside private interests for the collective, establishing its core meaning of public welfare and impartiality. It encompasses public affairs, state-owned property, and the community, contrasting with secrecy or private ownership. Historically, 公 also served as a noble title akin to a duke, and by extension, became a respectful term for an elderly or respected man, reflecting a shift from collective ownership to a title of public respect.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
公司派他去出差。
公园里的花开得很美。
请大家保持公共场所清洁。
他们正在讨论公司的公平政策。
公民有依法纳税的义务。
公交系统为市民提供了便利。
这位公主以其仁慈和智慧闻名。
在处理纠纷时，他始终秉持公心。