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A2 adjective 9 min read

公平な

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 公平な in 30 Seconds

Explanation 公平な in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of '公平 (kōhei)' as the word for 'fair' in games or simple sharing. Imagine you are playing a game with a friend. If the rules are the same for both of you, that is 'kōhei.' If you have two apples and you give one to each person, that is also 'kōhei.' You will mostly use it in simple sentences like 'Kōhei desu' (It is fair) or 'Kōhei janai' (It is not fair). At this level, don't worry about the complex kanji; just focus on the sound and the idea of 'no cheating' and 'everyone following the same rules.' It is a very useful word when you are doing activities with others and want to make sure everyone is happy and treated well. You might hear a teacher say it when giving out stickers or snacks to students in a classroom. Just remember: if it feels 'right' and 'even,' it is probably kōhei!

At the A2 level, you should start using '公平な' (kōhei-na) as a na-adjective to describe things. You can say 'kōhei-na rūru' (fair rules) or 'kōhei-na hito' (a fair person). You are now learning that Japanese adjectives need 'na' when they come before a noun. You will also start to see the kanji: 公 (public) and 平 (level). This helps you remember that 'fairness' in Japanese is about making things 'level' for the 'public.' You might use this word when talking about your job or school. For example, 'My boss is fair' (Jōshi wa kōhei desu). You can also use the negative form 'fukōhei' (unfair) to talk about things that don't feel right. This level is about expanding from simple 'yes/no' fairness to describing the world around you using this word.

At the B1 level, you should understand the distinction between '公平' (fairness/equity) and '平等' (equality). While they are similar, '公平' is about the process and the rules, whereas '平等' is about the result. For instance, if a company gives everyone a promotion regardless of work, that is 'byōdō' (equal), but if they only promote the best workers using a clear system, that is 'kōhei' (fair). You will start using 'kōhei ni' as an adverb to describe actions, such as 'kōhei ni handan suru' (to judge fairly). You will encounter this word in news articles about sports or local politics. You should be able to explain why something is 'kōhei' or 'fukōhei' using basic reasons. It's also a good time to learn the phrase 'kōhei o kisu' (to ensure fairness), which is often seen in announcements for contests or exams.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use '公平な' in more complex social and professional contexts. You should be comfortable discussing '公平な競争' (fair competition) or '公平な社会' (a fair society). You will notice that this word is often used in debates about social justice and economics. For example, you might discuss whether the current tax system is 'kōhei' for all generations. You should also be able to use the word in formal writing, such as emails or reports, to advocate for unbiased treatment. At this level, you can distinguish '公平' from '公正' (kōsei), noting that 'kōsei' is more formal and often used in legal or institutional settings. Your ability to use 'kōhei' correctly in a business meeting to argue for transparent evaluation criteria will demonstrate your growing fluency and cultural understanding of Japanese meritocracy.

At the C1 level, your understanding of '公平な' should include its philosophical and systemic implications. You can discuss the '公平性の担保' (guaranteeing of fairness) in complex systems like AI algorithms or international trade agreements. You understand that 'kōhei' is a vital part of the 'social contract' in Japan, where maintaining the appearance and reality of impartiality is essential for institutional legitimacy. You can use the word in nuanced ways, such as discussing 'kōhei-na futan' (fair burden-sharing) in environmental policy or healthcare. You are also familiar with related four-kanji idioms like '不偏不党' (impartiality) and can use them to describe media or judicial stances. Your usage should reflect an awareness of how 'kōhei' interacts with other values like 'efficiency' or 'tradition' in Japanese discourse.

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of '公平な' and its various registers. You can effortlessly navigate the subtle shifts between '公平,' '公正,' and '正義' in academic or legal debates. You can analyze how the concept of 'kōhei' has evolved in Japanese history, from feudal concepts of 'go-on to hōkō' to modern democratic ideals. You are capable of critiquing the 'kōhei-sei' of structural elements in Japanese society, such as the 'dual labor market' or the 'kisha club' system in journalism. Your language use is precise, allowing you to use 'kōhei' to describe microscopic interactions (like a fair coin toss) and macroscopic concepts (like global distributive justice) with equal ease and appropriate formality. You can also recognize when 'kōhei' is being used as a rhetorical tool in political spin to mask underlying inequalities.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

公平な in 30 Seconds

公平な (kōhei-na) means 'fair' or 'impartial,' focusing on unbiased processes and rules.
It is a na-adjective used in sports, business, law, and everyday social sharing.
The word differs from 'byōdō' (equality) because it emphasizes equity and merit over identical outcomes.
Commonly paired with nouns like judgment (handan), rules (rūru), and competition (kyōsō).

The Japanese word 公平な (kōhei-na) is a cornerstone of social interaction and professional ethics in Japan. At its heart, it translates to 'fair' or 'impartial,' but its etymological roots provide a deeper layer of understanding. The first kanji, 公 (kō), signifies something 'public' or 'official,' representing an arena where personal biases should be set aside for the common good. The second kanji, 平 (hei), translates to 'flat,' 'level,' or 'even.' Combined, the word paints a vivid picture of a 'publicly level' playing field where no one side is elevated above the other based on favoritism or prejudice.

Semantic Range: While 'fair' is the primary translation, kōhei specifically targets the process of decision-making. It is used when discussing judges, referees, teachers grading exams, or managers conducting performance reviews. It suggests that the person in power is following a standardized set of rules without letting personal feelings interfere.
Social Context: In Japanese culture, which values wa (harmony), being seen as kōhei is essential for leadership. A leader who shows favoritism (贔屓 - hiiki) destroys the collective trust. Therefore, you will often hear this word in corporate manifestos or political speeches promising 'fair opportunities' for all citizens regardless of their background.

試験の結果は、公平な基準で評価されます。
(The exam results are evaluated based on fair criteria.)

It is important to distinguish kōhei from its close cousin, byōdō (平等 - equality). While byōdō often refers to everyone receiving the exact same outcome (e.g., everyone gets 100 yen), kōhei refers to everyone being treated according to the same rules (e.g., everyone gets paid based on the hours they worked). This nuance is vital in business and legal contexts where 'equity' rather than 'sameness' is the goal.

彼は誰に対しても公平な態度で接します。
(He treats everyone with a fair attitude.)

Common Collocations: You will frequently see this adjective paired with nouns like 判断 (handan - judgment), 競争 (kyōsō - competition), and 分配 (bunpai - distribution). In each case, it reinforces the idea that the action is being performed without bias.

Finally, consider the emotional weight. To call someone 'un-fair' (fukōhei) in a Japanese setting is a significant criticism. It implies a moral failing or a lack of integrity. Conversely, being praised for a kōhei-na handan (fair judgment) is one of the highest compliments a manager or official can receive, as it validates their objectivity and dedication to the 'public' good suggested by the first kanji.

Since 公平 (kōhei) is a na-adjective (adjectival noun), its grammatical application follows standard patterns but requires attention to the particle 'na' when modifying nouns and 'ni' when modifying verbs.

Modifying a Noun: To describe a noun as fair, simply place 'na' between the word and the noun. For example, 公平なルール (kōhei-na rūru - fair rules). This is the most common usage in formal documentation and descriptions of systems.
Modifying a Verb (Adverbial Use): To say someone is acting fairly, change 'na' to 'ni'. For instance, 公平に分ける (kōhei ni wakeru - to divide fairly). This is used when instructing people how to behave or describing the execution of a task.

審判は公平な判定を下さなければならない。
(A referee must deliver a fair decision.)

When used at the end of a sentence, it behaves like a noun. In polite speech, use desu: この配分は公平です (This distribution is fair). In casual speech, use da or simply end with the word: それは公平じゃない (That's not fair).

利益を公平に分配しましょう。
(Let's distribute the profits fairly.)

In professional settings, you might encounter the phrase 公平を期す (kōhei o kisu), which means 'to ensure fairness.' This is a set expression used in preambles for competitions or selection processes to guarantee to the participants that the process will be unbiased.

Negative Forms: The negative is 不公平 (fukōhei). It is used as a noun or a na-adjective. 不公平な扱い (fukōhei-na atsukai - unfair treatment) is a common phrase when expressing grievances about discrimination or bias.

Remember that kōhei is inherently positive. Using it implies a level of respect for the person or system being described. If you are translating 'fair' in the sense of 'average' or 'so-so' (e.g., 'a fair amount of rain'), kōhei is not the word to use; instead, use maa-maa or soreなり.

You will encounter 公平な in a variety of high-stakes and structured environments in Japan. Because it relates to justice and social order, its frequency increases as the situation becomes more formal.

1. Sports and Games: Whether it's a professional baseball game or a local board game club, the concept of fair play is translated as 公平なプレー. Commentators will use the word when discussing a referee's controversial call, often debating whether the decision was kōhei or biased.
2. The Corporate Workplace: During the shakaijin (working adult) life, kōhei is most common during performance review seasons. HR departments often release statements like 'We aim for kōhei-na hyōka (fair evaluations).' If a colleague gets a promotion through connections rather than merit, you might hear whispers of fukōhei (unfairness) in the breakroom.

ニュース番組：「公平な選挙が行われることを期待します。」
(News program: "We hope that a fair election will be held.")

In education, teachers use this word to explain the rules of entrance exams. Japan's entrance exam culture is notoriously rigorous, and the kōhei-sei (fairness/impartiality) of the testing process is a matter of intense public concern. Any hint of unfairness in university admissions often becomes a national scandal.

3. Legal and Political Discourse: Politicians use kōhei when discussing tax reforms or social welfare. Phrases like 公平な負担 (kōhei-na futan - fair burden/sharing of costs) are common when explaining why certain groups might need to pay more taxes for the benefit of the whole society.

裁判官は常に公平な立場でいなければならない。
(A judge must always remain in a fair/impartial position.)

Lastly, in daily life, you might hear parents using it with children. When siblings are fighting over a toy or a snack, a parent might say, '半分ずつにして、公平にね' (Split it in half and be fair). This teaches Japanese children the value of kōhei from a very young age, emphasizing that peace is maintained through balance and adherence to shared rules.

While 公平な (kōhei-na) is relatively straightforward, English speakers often trip up on its nuances compared to related Japanese terms. Understanding these distinctions is the difference between sounding like a beginner and a fluent speaker.

Mistake 1: Confusing 公平 (Kōhei) with 平等 (Byōdō): This is the most common error. 平等 means 'everyone gets the same thing' (equality). 公平 means 'everyone is treated according to the same rules' (fairness/equity). If you give every runner a trophy regardless of who won, that is byōdō. If you only give a trophy to the fastest runner based on the stopwatch, that is kōhei.
Mistake 2: Using it for 'Fair' Weather or 'Fair' Amount: In English, 'fair' has many meanings. You cannot use kōhei for weather (use hare) or for 'average' quality (use maa-maa). Kōhei is strictly about impartiality and justice. Saying 'Kōhei-na tenki' (Fair weather) will confuse Japanese listeners.

❌ 彼は公平な学生です。
✅ 彼は平均的な学生です。
(Correction: You mean 'average student' (heikin-teki), not 'impartial student'.)

Another mistake is forgetting the 'na' in na-adjective form. Beginners often say 'Kōhei hito' instead of 公平な人. Because kōhei can also function as a noun, the distinction is crucial for grammatical accuracy.

Mistake 3: Over-using it for 'Justice': While related, 'Justice' is usually 正義 (seigi). Seigi is a grander, more moralistic term (like a superhero fighting for justice). Kōhei is more administrative and procedural. If a teacher gives everyone the same amount of time on a test, that's kōhei. If a hero saves a city, that's seigi.

Finally, be careful with the word 公正 (kōsei). While often used interchangeably with kōhei, kōsei is significantly more formal and is typically reserved for legal documents, formal trade regulations (like the Fair Trade Commission - Kōsei Torihiki Iinkai), and high-level ethics. For your daily Japanese, kōhei is almost always the safer and more natural choice.

To truly master 公平な, you must see how it sits within a family of words related to balance, justice, and equality. Here is a breakdown of its closest relatives and how they differ.

1. 平等 (Byōdō) - Equality

Focus: Outcome and Status.

Use byōdō when everyone is on the same level or receives the same amount. Danjo byōdō (gender equality) is the standard term, not danjo kōhei. It's about being 'equal' in status.

2. 公正 (Kōsei) - Justice/Fairness (Formal)

Focus: Legality and Social Order.

Kōsei is the 'heavier' version of kōhei. It is often used in official titles and laws. If you are talking about the 'fairness' of the global market or a supreme court ruling, kōsei is more appropriate.

比較：
1. 公平な分け方 (A fair way of dividing - focused on the process/rules).
2. 平等な分け方 (An equal way of dividing - everyone gets 50/50).

3. 正当 (Seitō) - Justifiable/Legitimate

Focus: Validity.

Use seitō when an action is 'fair' because it is justified by logic or law. For example, seitō bōei (self-defense) is 'justified defense.' It’s not about being impartial, but about being 'right' under the circumstances.

4. 不偏不党 (Fuhen-futō) - Impartial and Non-partisan

Focus: Political Neutrality.

This is a four-kanji idiom (yojijukugo) often used by newspapers to describe their editorial stance. It means they don't lean toward any one party or ideology. It is the 'professional' peak of kōhei.

In summary, use 公平な for everyday situations involving rules and treatment. Use 平等 for equal outcomes. Use 公正 for high-level legal/ethical fairness. Use 客観的 for intellectual objectivity.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The kanji '平' (hei) is the same 'hei' in 'Heian Period' (Peaceful period), suggesting that fairness leads to peace.

Pronunciation Guide

UK kō-he-i

US koʊ-heɪ

Heiban (Flat) pitch accent. The pitch starts low and stays high from the second syllable onwards (ko-HEI).

Rhymes With

Souhei (monk soldier) Touhei (infantry) Jouhei (castle guard) Youhei (mercenary) Kouhei (engineer/sapper) Shouhei (invitation) Keihei (light infantry) Seihei (elite troops)

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'ko-hei' with a short 'o'. It must be 'kōhei' (long 'o').
Mistaking it for 'kōhai' (junior).
Putting the stress on the first syllable like 'KO-hei'.
Pronouncing 'hei' like 'high' (English).
Forgetting the 'na' when modifying nouns.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Kanji are common but require knowledge of JLPT N3 level strokes.

Writing 4/5

Writing '公平' requires attention to the balance of the '平' character.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is easy, but pitch accent (Heiban) is important.

Listening 2/5

Distinctive sound, unlikely to be confused with other common words once learned.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

公 (kō) - Public 平ら (taira) - Flat 平等 (byōdō) - Equality 判断 (handan) - Judgment ルール (rūru) - Rule

Learn Next

公正 (kōsei) - Justice/Fairness (Formal) 妥当 (datō) - Appropriate 客観的 (kyakkan-teki) - Objective 倫理 (rinri) - Ethics 透明性 (tōmei-sei) - Transparency

Advanced

不偏不党 (fuhen-futō) 公平無私 (kōhei mushi) 信賞必罰 (shinshō-hitsubatsu) 法的安定性 (hōteki antei-sei)

Grammar to Know

Na-adjective + な + Noun

公平な判断 (A fair judgment)

Na-adjective + に + Verb

公平に分ける (To divide fairly)

～に対して公平だ

彼は誰に対しても公平だ。 (He is fair toward everyone.)

Noun + を欠く (To lack...)

公平性を欠く (To lack fairness)

～を期す (To ensure/aim for...)

公平を期す (To ensure fairness)

Examples by Level

このゲームは公平です。

This game is fair.

Simple [Noun] wa [Adjective] desu structure.

公平にしましょう。

Let's be fair.

Adverbial form 'ni' used with 'shimashō' (let's do).

それは公平じゃない！

That's not fair!

Negative casual form 'janai'.

みんな公平が好きです。

Everyone likes fairness.

公平 used as a noun here.

先生は公平です。

The teacher is fair.

Describing a person's character/action.

公平なルールがあります。

There are fair rules.

Na-adjective modifying 'rūru'.

公平にお願いします。

Please be fair.

Using 'ni' to ask for a fair action.

これは公平ですか？

Is this fair?

Question form with 'desu ka'.

公平な判断が必要です。

A fair judgment is necessary.

Na-adjective modifying the noun 'handan'.

リーダーは公平な人です。

The leader is a fair person.

Na-adjective modifying 'hito'.

お菓子を公平に分けました。

I divided the sweets fairly.

Adverbial 'ni' modifying the verb 'wakemashita'.

不公平なことは嫌いです。

I hate unfair things.

Negative prefix 'fu-' added to kōhei.

公平なチャンスをください。

Please give me a fair chance.

Na-adjective modifying 'chansu'.

このテストは公平ではありません。

This test is not fair.

Formal negative 'dewa arimasen'.

公平な競争をしましょう。

Let's have a fair competition.

Na-adjective modifying 'kyōsō'.

彼はいつも公平に話します。

He always speaks fairly/impartially.

Adverbial 'ni' modifying 'hanashimasu'.

情報の公平な提供を求めます。

We demand the fair provision of information.

Formal noun phrase using 'no' and 'na'.

審判の公平な判定に感謝します。

I am grateful for the referee's fair decision.

Possessive 'no' followed by the adjective-noun pair.

利益を公平に配分することに合意しました。

We agreed to distribute the profits fairly.

Adverbial 'ni' used within a nominalized clause.

公平な社会を作るのは難しいです。

Creating a fair society is difficult.

Adjective modifying 'shakai' (society).

不公平な扱いを受けていると感じます。

I feel like I am receiving unfair treatment.

Negative 'fukōhei' modifying 'atsukai'.

公平を期すために、名前を隠して審査します。

To ensure fairness, we will judge with names hidden.

Set phrase 'kōhei o kisu' (to ensure fairness).

公平な立場から意見を言わせてください。

Please let me give my opinion from a fair/neutral standpoint.

Na-adjective modifying 'tachiba' (standpoint).

誰に対しても公平な態度で接するべきだ。

You should treat everyone with a fair attitude.

Using 'beki da' (should) with the adjective.

市場の公平な競争を維持するための法律です。

It is a law to maintain fair competition in the market.

Complex noun phrase describing legal purpose.

人事評価は公平かつ透明であるべきです。

Personnel evaluations should be fair and transparent.

Using 'katsu' (and also) to link two adjectives.

公平な機会が与えられていない現状を打破すべきだ。

We must break through the current situation where fair opportunities are not given.

Passive relative clause 'ataerarete inai' modifying 'genjō'.

彼は公平な精神を持った立派な指導者だ。

He is a fine leader with a fair spirit.

Adjective modifying 'seishin' (spirit/mindset).

メディアは公平な報道を心がける義務がある。

The media has an obligation to strive for fair reporting.

Noun 'gimu' (obligation) modified by a long clause.

公平な分配を実現するのは政治の役割だ。

It is the role of politics to realize fair distribution.

Focus on 'yakuwari' (role) of an entity.

その決定はあまりにも不公平だという批判が相次いだ。

There was a succession of criticisms that the decision was too unfair.

Quoted thought/criticism using 'to iu'.

公平な取り引きを促進するために協力しましょう。

Let's cooperate to promote fair trade.

Modifying 'torihiki' (trade/dealing).

公平な社会基盤の構築は、民主主義の根幹である。

The construction of a fair social infrastructure is the core of democracy.

Academic register using 'konkan' (root/core).

裁判官には、いかなる偏見も排した公平な視点が求められる。

Judges are required to have a fair perspective that excludes any prejudice.

Formal 'motomerareru' (is required).

税制の公平性を担保するための抜本的な改革が必要だ。

Drastic reforms are needed to guarantee the fairness of the tax system.

Noun form 'kōhei-sei' (fairness).

資源の公平なアクセスをめぐって、国際的な議論が続いている。

International debates continue over fair access to resources.

Using 'megutte' (concerning/over).

アルゴリズムによる選別が公平なものであるか、検証が必要だ。

Verification is needed to see if selection by algorithms is fair.

Embedded question with 'ka'.

公平な負担の原則に基づき、新税が導入された。

Based on the principle of fair burden-sharing, a new tax was introduced.

Formal 'motozuki' (based on).

この選考プロセスは公平性を欠いているとの指摘がある。

It has been pointed out that this selection process lacks fairness.

Phrase 'kōhei-sei o kaku' (to lack fairness).

公平な競争環境を整備することが、イノベーションを加速させる。

Developing a fair competitive environment accelerates innovation.

Abstract cause-effect sentence.

法の支配の下では、全ての市民に対して公平な司法サービスが提供されねばならない。

Under the rule of law, fair judicial services must be provided to all citizens.

Highly formal '-neba naranai' (must).

世代間の公平性をいかに維持するかは、現代社会の喫緊の課題である。

How to maintain intergenerational fairness is an urgent issue for modern society.

Using 'ikani' (how) and 'kikkin' (urgent).

公平な分配を阻害する構造的な要因を特定し、排除する必要がある。

It is necessary to identify and eliminate the structural factors that hinder fair distribution.

Using 'sogai' (hinder/obstruct).

客観的事実に基づかない批判は、公平な議論を妨げる。

Criticism not based on objective facts hinders fair discussion.

Using 'samatageru' (hinder/interfere).

公平な社会秩序の維持こそが、国家の存立基盤である。

The very maintenance of a fair social order is the foundation of the state's existence.

Emphasis particle 'koso'.

情報の非対称性が存在する中での「公平な取引」は、単なる修辞に過ぎない場合がある。

In the presence of information asymmetry, 'fair trade' can sometimes be nothing more than mere rhetoric.

Using 'shūji' (rhetoric) and 'ni suginai' (nothing more than).

公平な競争の名の下に、弱者が切り捨てられることがあってはならない。

Under the name of fair competition, the weak must not be abandoned.

Phrase 'na no moto ni' (under the name of).

真の公平な社会とは、個々の能力が最大限に発揮できる環境を指す。

A truly fair society refers to an environment where individual abilities can be maximized.

Definition using 'sasu' (refer to).

Common Collocations

公平な判断

公平な競争

公平な分配

公平な立場

公平なルール

公平な評価

公平なチャンス

公平な扱い

公平な報道

公平な基準

Common Phrases

公平を期す

— To ensure fairness. Used as a formal statement of intent.

公平を期すため、抽選を行います。

公平に言えば

— To be fair... / In all fairness... Used to introduce a counter-point.

公平に言えば、彼にも非がある。

不公平を嘆く

— To lament unfairness. Expressing sadness over bias.

彼は世の中の不公平を嘆いている。

公平性を欠く

— To lack fairness. Used to criticize a process.

その選考は公平性を欠いている。

公平な目で見れば

— Looking at it with fair eyes. Looking objectively.

公平な目で見れば、どちらも正しい。

公平に取り扱う

— To handle or treat fairly.

全ての苦情を公平に取り扱う。

公平な負担

— Fair burden. Usually regarding taxes or costs.

国民に公平な負担を求める。

公平かつ公正な

— Fair and just. A tautological emphasis in formal speech.

公平かつ公正な社会を目指す。

公平な分配金

— Fairly distributed money/dividends.

公平な分配金を受け取る。

公平な機会均等

— Fair equality of opportunity.

公平な機会均等を実現する。

Often Confused With

公平な vs 平等 (Byōdō)

Byōdō is 'everyone gets the same.' Kōhei is 'everyone follows the same rules.' Use Kōhei for merit-based systems.

公平な vs 公正 (Kōsei)

Kōsei is more formal and implies 'justice.' Kōhei is the standard word for 'fairness' in activities.

公平な vs 正義 (Seigi)

Seigi is 'Justice' as a moral crusade. Kōhei is 'Fairness' as a procedural standard.

Idioms & Expressions

"公平無私"

— To be perfectly fair and have no personal interest or bias.

彼は公平無私の精神で仕事に取り組んでいる。

Formal

"一視同仁"

— Universal benevolence; treating all people with the same love and fairness.

王は国民を一視同仁に愛した。

Literary

"清廉潔白"

— Pure and honest; having a clean conscience (often implies fairness).

清廉潔白な政治家として知られる。

Formal

"えこひいき"

— Favoritism (the opposite of fairness).

先生は特定の生徒をえこひいきする。

Informal

"不偏不党"

— Impartiality and non-partisanship.

この新聞は不偏不党を貫いている。

Journalistic

"信賞必罰"

— Sure punishment and sure reward (a system of extreme fairness).

信賞必罰の教育方針を貫く。

Formal

"天秤にかける"

— To weigh two things in the balance (process of being fair).

二つの案を天秤にかけて公平に選ぶ。

Neutral

"裏表がない"

— No front or back (sincere/fair person).

彼は裏表がない公平な人だ。

Informal

"正々堂々"

— Fair and square; in an open and dignified manner.

正々堂々と戦って勝つ。

Neutral

"持ちつ持たれつ"

— Give and take; mutual aid (a form of social fairness).

社会は持ちつ持たれつ、公平に助け合うべきだ。

Informal

Easily Confused

公平な vs 平均 (Heikin)

Sounds slightly similar to 'hei' in kōhei.

Heikin means 'average' (mathematical). Kōhei means 'fair.'

テストの平均点は60点だ。 (The average score of the test is 60.)

公平な vs 平和 (Heiwa)

Shares the 'hei' kanji.

Heiwa means 'peace.' Kōhei means 'fairness.'

世界平和を願う。 (I wish for world peace.)

公平な vs 後輩 (Kōhai)

Sounds very similar to 'kōhei.'

Kōhai means 'junior.' Kōhei means 'fair.'

彼は私の大切な後輩だ。 (He is my important junior.)

公平な vs 公平 (Kōhei) vs 公衆 (Kōshū)

Both start with 'kō' (public).

Kōshū means 'the public/masses.' Kōhei is the adjective 'fair.'

公衆電話を使う。 (Use a public phone.)

公平な vs 適正 (Tekisei)

Often used alongside fairness in business.

Tekisei means 'proper' or 'appropriate.' Kōhei is 'fair.'

適正な価格設定。 (Appropriate pricing.)

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] は公平です。

このルールは公平です。

公平な [Noun] を [Verb]。

公平な判断をします。

[Noun] を公平に [Verb]。

お菓子を公平に分けます。

公平を期すために、[Action]。

公平を期すために、テストを行います。

[Noun] の公平性を [Verb]。

税制の公平性を担保する。

公平な立場から [Verb]。

公平な立場から意見を述べる。

公平な [Noun] こそが [Noun] だ。

公平な社会こそが理想だ。

[Noun] は公平性を欠いている。

そのプロセスは公平性を欠いている。

Word Family

Nouns

公平 (kōhei) - Fairness

公平性 (kōhei-sei) - Impartiality/Fairness (quality)

不公平 (fukōhei) - Unfairness

Verbs

公平にする (kōhei ni suru) - To make fair

公平を期す (kōhei o kisu) - To ensure fairness

Adjectives

公平な (kōhei-na) - Fair

不公平な (fukōhei-na) - Unfair

公正 (kōsei) - Justice

平等 (byōdō) - Equality

正義 (seigi) - Justice

客観 (kyakkan) - Objectivity

中立 (chūritsu) - Neutrality

How to Use It

frequency

Common in news, education, and business. Less common in very casual daily small talk unless discussing a specific game or grievance.

Common Mistakes

Using 'kōhei' for 'average' students. → 平均的な学生 (heikin-teki na gakusei)
'Fair' in English can mean 'average,' but 'kōhei' only means 'impartial.'
Saying 'kōhei hito' instead of 'kōhei na hito'. → 公平な人
It is a na-adjective, so it needs 'na' to connect to a noun.
Using 'kōhei' to mean 'equal portions'. → 平等な分け方 (byōdō na wakekata)
If the focus is on the exact same size, 'byōdō' is more common. 'Kōhei' is about the fairness of the choice.
Confusing 'kōhei' with 'kōhai' (junior). → 公平 (kōhei)
The pronunciation is similar, but 'kōhai' has a different pitch and meaning.
Using 'kōhei' for 'fair skin'. → 色の白い肌 (iro no shiroi hada)
'Fair' for skin color is never 'kōhei.' Use 'white/pale' instead.

Tips

Adjective or Noun?

Remember that '公平' can be a noun (fairness) or a na-adjective (fair). In '公平を期す', it is a noun. In '公平な人', it is an adjective. Both are correct!

Process vs Result

If you want to focus on everyone getting the same amount of cake, use '平等'. If you want to focus on everyone getting cake based on how much they helped bake it, use '公平'.

Avoid Favoritism

In Japan, '贔屓' (hiiki - favoritism) is the opposite of '公平'. If you are in a leadership position, being '公平' is key to maintaining 'Wa' (harmony).

Learn the Kanji

公 (Public) + 平 (Level). If you remember 'Publicly Level,' you will never forget the meaning of kōhei.

Use in Arguments

To make your argument sound more objective, use '公平な立場から言うと...' (Speaking from a fair standpoint...). It makes you sound less emotional.

News Keywords

When you hear 'kōhei' on the news, pay attention to the topic. It's usually about taxes, elections, or international trade.

Formal Reports

In business reports, use '公平性を確保する' (to ensure fairness) instead of just '公平にする' to sound more professional.

Entrance Exams

Fairness (kōhei-sei) is a massive topic in Japan regarding university entrance exams. Any bias there is considered a major social crime.

The Level Scale

Visualize the '平' kanji as a flat line. It represents the level ground where everyone stands fairly.

Don't say 'Fair Weather'

Always remember that 'kōhei' is for justice, not for the sun! 'Kōhei-na tenki' is a classic beginner mistake.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'CO' (public) 'HAY' (flat field). A public hay field where everyone gets the same amount of space to work is 'kōhei.'

Visual Association

A set of scales (the type Lady Justice holds) that are perfectly balanced.

Word Web

Judges Referees Taxes Grades Sharing Rules Sports Equality

Challenge

Try to find three things today that you think are 'fukōhei' (unfair) and write them down in Japanese.

Word Origin

Borrowed from Classical Chinese. The word appears in ancient texts discussing governance and legal philosophy.

Original meaning: A state where the public (公) is kept level (平).

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Cultural Context

Be careful when accusing a superior of being 'fukōhei' (unfair). It is a very direct and harsh criticism in Japanese culture.

In the West, 'fairness' often emphasizes individual rights and 'getting what you deserve.' In Japan, it often emphasizes 'not being biased against anyone in the group.'

The 'Kōsei Torihiki Iinkai' (Japan Fair Trade Commission) is a major government body. In the anime 'Death Note,' the character Light Yagami often discusses his version of 'justice' and 'fairness.' The Japanese Constitution mentions the importance of 'kōhei' in legal proceedings.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At School

公平なテスト
公平に分ける
公平な先生
不公平だ！

At Work

公平な評価
公平な機会
公平な競争
公平な待遇

In Sports

公平な審判
公平なプレー
公平な判定
公平なルール

In Law/Politics

公平な裁判
公平な税制
公平な負担
公平な選挙

In Relationships

公平な態度
公平に接する
公平な話し合い
不公平を感じる

Conversation Starters

"あなたは今の会社の評価システムは公平だと思いますか？ (Do you think your company's evaluation system is fair?)"

"子供の頃、兄弟と比べて不公平だと感じたことはありますか？ (Did you ever feel things were unfair compared to your siblings when you were a child?)"

"公平な社会を作るために、一番大切なことは何だと思いますか？ (What do you think is the most important thing for creating a fair society?)"

"スポーツの審判がAIになったら、もっと公平になると思いますか？ (Do you think sports will become fairer if referees are replaced by AI?)"

"日本では、男女の扱いは公平だと思いますか？ (Do you think treatment of men and women in Japan is fair?)"

Journal Prompts

今日、自分が「公平だな」と感じた出来事について書いてください。 (Write about an event today that you felt was 'fair.')

「公平」と「平等」の違いについて、あなたの考えを日本語でまとめてみましょう。 (Summarize your thoughts on the difference between 'fairness' and 'equality' in Japanese.)

もしあなたがリーダーだったら、どうやって公平なチームを作りますか？ (If you were a leader, how would you create a fair team?)

最近のニュースで「不公平だ」と思ったことについて、理由を説明してください。 (Explain why you thought something in recent news was 'unfair.')

公平な競争は、社会を良くすると思いますか、それとも悪くすると思いますか？ (Do you think fair competition makes society better or worse?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but it describes their behavior or character in terms of impartiality. 'Kōhei-na hito' is someone who doesn't take sides. It doesn't mean they are 'nice' in a general sense.

'Fea' is a loanword from English. It is mostly used in sports (fair play) or casually among friends. 'Kōhei' is more versatile and used in formal, professional, and written contexts.

No. English uses 'fair weather,' but Japanese uses 'hare' (sunny) or 'yoi tenki' (good weather). Using 'kōhei' for weather is a mistake.

Casually, you say 'Sore wa fukōhei da!' or 'Sore wa zurui!' (The latter means 'That's cheating/sneaky'). Formally, you say 'Sore wa fukōhei desu.'

No, that is 'byōdō.' 'Kōhei' implies equality of opportunity or process. A fair race results in one winner, which is 'kōhei' but not 'byōdō' (in terms of the result).

Yes, it is extremely common in news, school settings, and business. It is a JLPT N3 level word but used frequently in A2/B1 level daily life.

Usually, 'tekisei' (proper) or 'datō' (reasonable) is used for prices. However, you can say 'kōhei-na torihiki' (fair trade) to imply the transaction process was fair.

It is the noun form, meaning 'fairness' or 'impartiality.' You use it when discussing the quality of a system, like 'the fairness of the tax system' (zeisei no kōhei-sei).

Yes, it is often used to describe God's impartiality or the fairness of divine judgment.

No. In English, 'a fair amount' means 'a medium amount.' In Japanese, 'kōhei' never means 'medium.' Use 'kanari' or 'soreなり' for that.