Translation guide
Expressing actions or attitudes done without concealment, in a public or transparent manner.
To do or say something in a way that is not secret, showing true feelings or intentions.
Adverb meaning 'frankly' or 'openly', used when expressing honest opinions or feelings without reservation.
率直に言って、その計画はうまくいかないと思う。
Frankly speaking, I don't think that plan will work.
Adverb meaning 'openly' or 'publicly', often used for actions done without hiding, sometimes with a nuance of defiance or in formal contexts.
To do something in a way that anyone can see, without trying to hide it.
Phrase meaning 'in front of people' or 'publicly', used when an action is done where others can see.
彼は人前で泣くのを恥ずかしがらない。
He isn't ashamed to cry openly.
To act or speak as oneself, not anonymously or under cover.
Phrase meaning 'under one's real name', used when someone does something openly without anonymity.
彼は実名で意見を発表した。
He expressed his opinion openly under his real name.
公然と (こうぜんと) emphasizes public visibility and lack of concealment, often used for actions or statements that might be controversial. 率直に (そっちょくに) focuses on frankness and honesty in expressing thoughts or feelings, not necessarily in a public setting.
彼は公然と反対意見を述べた。
He openly expressed his opposing opinion (in public).
率直に言うと、そのアイデアは好きじゃない。
Frankly speaking, I don't like that idea.
Directly translating 'openly' as オープンに may sound unnatural in formal or written Japanese. Use 公然と or 率直に depending on context. オープンに is more casual and often used in spoken language or about attitudes.
He openly criticized the government.
Adverb meaning 'openly' or 'bluntly', often implying a lack of tact or being too direct, sometimes negative.
彼女はあけすけに不満を言った。
She openly voiced her dissatisfaction.
Loanword from English, used in casual or modern contexts to mean 'openly', often about discussions or attitudes.
もっとオープンに話し合おう。
Let's talk more openly.
Also used for 'in public view', emphasizing that the action is done without concealment, often in formal or serious contexts.
その問題は公然と議論された。
The issue was discussed openly.
Adverb meaning 'openly' or 'without reserve', often used when something is done brazenly or without shame.
彼はおおっぴらにタバコを吸った。
He smoked openly.
Adverb meaning 'openly and confidently', often implying no attempt to hide, with a sense of dignity or boldness.
彼女は堂々と自分の意見を述べた。
She openly stated her opinion.