Meaning
公然 means to do something openly or publicly, often in a bold or brazen way that shows no shame or fear of consequences. It frequently carries a negative connotation, implying that the action is improper or violates norms, yet is done without any attempt to hide it.
Usage
This word is commonly used in formal or written contexts to criticize behavior that openly violates rules, morals, or social expectations. It often appears before verbs to emphasize the brazenness of an action, such as 公然违反 (openly violate) or 公然撒谎 (openly lie). Native speakers use it when they want to express disapproval of someone acting without regard for propriety or consequences.
Examples
- 01他公然违反公司的规定，让所有人都很震惊。, .He openly violated company regulations, shocking everyone.
- 02这些人公然在大街上行骗，实在太嚣张了。, .These people openly commit fraud on the street; they're really too brazen.
Characters
Common collocations
- 公然违反to openly violate
- 公然挑衅to openly provoke
- 公然撒谎to openly lie
- 公然宣称to openly declare
Antonyms
Origin
The word combines 公 (public) with 然 (a classical suffix meaning 'in that manner'), literally creating the meaning 'in a public manner' or 'openly.'