Translation guide
A speech or lecture open to the general public, often on a specific topic. Japanese uses different words depending on formality, setting, and whether it's a lecture, a talk, or a public address.
A formal or semi-formal talk given to a public audience, often by an expert or invited speaker.
The most common word for a formal public lecture or speech, often by a specialist. Used for events like university lectures open to the public, keynote speeches, or invited talks.
Yesterday I went to hear a public talk on environmental issues.
His public talk was very easy to understand.
Literally 'open course/lecture'. Often used for a series of public talks or a course open to the community, typically by a university or cultural institution.
I attended a public talk (as part of an open lecture series) at the university.
A talk or lecture, often with a moral or educational purpose. Slightly more formal and sometimes used for talks at schools, companies, or community centers.
We listened to the principal's talk.
Loanword from English. Used for a speech, often at ceremonies or events. Less formal than 講演 and can imply a shorter, more personal address.
I was asked to give a speech at the wedding.
A less formal gathering where someone speaks and interacts with the audience, like a talk at a café or community event.
Loanword from English 'talk'. Used for informal public talks, often with a conversational style, such as artist talks, book talks, or talk events.
This weekend there's a talk event by the author at the bookstore.
A round-table discussion or talk session, often with multiple speakers and audience interaction. More structured than a casual talk.
The act or art of speaking in front of an audience, often in contexts like presentations, debates, or announcements.
Literally 'speaking in front of people'. The most natural way to refer to public speaking as an activity or skill.
I get nervous about public speaking.
A formal speech or address, often political or ceremonial. Can imply a grand, rhetorical style.
Also used for the skill of giving speeches, e.g., in contests or classes.
講演 (kōen) is a formal lecture, often academic or expert-led. スピーチ (supīchi) is a speech, often at ceremonies or events, and can be personal. トーク (tōku) is an informal talk, often conversational and interactive. Choose based on formality and setting.
直訳の「公の話」や「公共の話」は不自然です。必ず上記の適切な単語を使ってください。 (Literal translations like '公の話' or '公共の話' are unnatural. Always use the appropriate words above.)
She gave a public talk on climate change.
I'm attending a public talk at the library tomorrow.
A talk event, often used for public discussions or presentations in a relaxed setting.
I signed up for a free talk event.
A public talk (round-table discussion) by experts was held.
政治家の演説を聞いた。
I listened to the politician's public address.
英語のスピーチコンテストに出た。
I participated in an English speech contest.