godan verb (-tsu), intransitive verb
become public; come to light; surface
Describes a matter, problem, or fact that was previously hidden or private becoming openly known or discussed.
内部の不正が表立って、会社は大変なことになった。
The internal misconduct came to light, and the company was in serious trouble.
彼の不満はまだ表立っていないが、いつ爆発するかわからない。
His dissatisfaction hasn't surfaced yet, but it could explode at any time.
godan verb (-tsu), intransitive verb
be formal; be official; be overt
Used when an action, relationship, or stance is taken openly or officially, as opposed to being informal or behind the scenes. Often appears in negative forms like 表立って～しない (not do something openly).
表立った抗議はなかったが、不満の声は上がっていた。
There was no formal protest, but voices of discontent were raised.
彼らは表立って交際しているわけではない。
They are not openly dating.