Translation guide
How to express that something is widely known or not a secret in Japanese.
To say that something is generally known by people, not a secret.
A formal phrase meaning 'a widely known fact'. Often used in news or official contexts.
それは周知の事実だ。
That is public knowledge.
To emphasize that information is not private or restricted.
Means 'public information'. Used in formal or legal contexts.
このデータは公の情報です。
This data is public knowledge.
To indicate that something has been covered by media and is known to the public.
Means 'known through news reports'. Natural when referring to media coverage.
その事件は報道で知られている。
The incident is public knowledge.
The direct translation '公共の知識' (こうきょうのちしき) is not natural in Japanese. Use the phrases above instead.
Literally 'open secret', used when something is technically secret but widely known.
彼の不正は公然の秘密だった。
His misconduct was an open secret.
A casual way to say 'everyone knows'. Suitable for everyday conversation.
その話は誰でも知っているよ。
That story is public knowledge.
Literally 'disclosed information'. Common in business or government settings.
それは公開情報だから話しても大丈夫だ。
It's public knowledge, so it's okay to talk about it.