WordGarden.iopublicly
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /pˈʌblɪkli/
US
- /ˈpəblɪkli/
Meanings
Adverb
in a way that people generally can see, hear, or know about; not privately
by or through the government or public sector
Beyond the definition
To do something publicly means to do it where other people can see, hear, or know about it, not in private. Think of a politician giving a speech to a crowd. You might publicly apologize for a mistake, meaning you say sorry in front of others. Or a couple might announce their engagement publicly on social media so everyone knows. The opposite is privately, when something happens away from other people.
Sometimes, publicly also means something is open or available to everyone, not just a small group. A company might be publicly traded, meaning its shares can be bought by ordinary people. A place might be publicly accessible, meaning people are allowed to enter or use it.
The word "publicly" describes actions or information that are made known or visible to the general public. It is more than simply doing something in public; it often suggests that other people are meant to see it, hear it, or know about it. For example, a scientist might publicly share research findings in a published paper, making them available for others to read and discuss.
You'll often see "publicly" used with verbs like "announce," "apologize," "criticize," or "support." "The mayor publicly announced the new park project" means the announcement was not made only to a small group, but shared openly for many people to hear. Similarly, if someone publicly criticizes another person, it is not a private conversation. It is an open expression of disapproval that others can witness.
"Publicly" also applies to things that are available or accessible to everyone. A publicly owned park is different from a private garden because anyone can visit the park. A publicly funded school receives money from taxes and is meant to serve the community.
The idea of "publicly" often connects with openness and accountability. When something is done publicly, there is less room for secrecy. Other people can react to it, question it, or judge it for themselves. Whether it is a statement, an action, or a resource, if something is publicly available, it is open for all to see or use.
Examples
- 1
Public speaking
She hates speaking publicly, even in front of a small class.
- 2
Official apology
The mayor apologized publicly for the error.
- 3
Sports support
Several players publicly supported their coach after the loss.
- 4
Public unity
Although the two leaders disagreed in private, they stayed publicly united.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Company statement
The company has not publicly commented on the rumor.
- 6
Public criticism
He was publicly criticized for his remarks.
- 7
Access to information
The report will be made publicly available next month.
- Patternmake X publicly available
let anyone see or use it
- 8
Stock market
Because the company is publicly traded, it has to share more financial information.
- Domainin finance, publicly traded
a company's shares are sold on the stock market
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- publiclyadverb