A2adjective1K

Public

UK /["/ˈpʌblɪk/"]/US /["/ˈpʌblɪk/"]/

Definition

connected with ordinary people in society in general

In simple words: Relating to or concerning people as a whole.

Examples

  • The public park is a great place for families to enjoy a picnic.
  • He has a public persona that is very different from his private life.
  • The mayor addressed the public about the new policies.
  • Many public places, like libraries, offer free Wi-Fi.
  • Public transportation is essential for many people in the city.

Usage notes

Used to describe things that are available to everyone, like parks or transportation. Informal contexts might involve 'public' jokes or discussions about private matters in the public eye.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'public' like a 'public park' where everyone can go!

Collocations

  • public transport
  • public opinion
  • public life

Synonyms

  • communal
  • shared
  • open

Antonyms

  • private
  • secret

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'private' — misunderstanding the contrast.
  • Incorrectly using it as a noun instead of an adjective.
  • Overusing it in contexts that require more specific terms.