relating to or involving people in general, rather than being limited to a particular group of people, open to or shared by all the people of an area or country

in public, go public, public enemy number one

public transportation, public opinion, public figure

Formal and Informal Expressions of public

In different contexts, you can replace 'public' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'communal, collective' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'everybody's, out in the open' is a commonplace synonym.

public: Explore its Definition & Usage

public Definition

1relating to or involving people in general, rather than being limited to a particular group of people
2open to or shared by all the people of an area or country

Using public: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "public" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The company's financial records became public knowledge.
Example
The park is open to the public from dawn until dusk.
Example
The government has a responsibility to serve the public interest.
Example
The artist's work is on public display at the museum.

public Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for public

Antonyms for public

Idioms Using public

in public
in a situation where other people can see or hear what is happening
Example
She didn't want to argue with him in public.
go public
to make something known to the general public, especially by issuing a statement or press release
Example
The company decided to go public with their plans for expansion.
public enemy number one
a person or thing that is considered the greatest threat or danger to society
Example
After the terrorist attack, the suspect became public enemy number one.

Phrases with public

public transportation
a system of buses, trains, etc. that is available for everyone to use and that is paid for by taxes
Example
I usually take public transportation to work.
public opinion
the views held by the general public on a particular issue or topic
Example
Public opinion polls show that most people support the new law.
public figure
a person who is well-known to the general public, especially for their involvement in politics, entertainment, or sports
Example
As a public figure, she was used to being in the spotlight.

Origins of public

from Latin 'publicus', meaning 'of the people'

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Summary: public in Brief

The term 'public' [ˈpʌblɪk] refers to things that are open to or involving people in general, rather than being limited to a particular group. It can refer to things like financial records, parks, and art displays, as well as concepts like public transportation and public opinion. Common idioms include 'in public,' 'go public,' and 'public enemy number one.'