方向
fāngxiàng
Directions in Chinese, as in asking which way to go, is 方向 (fāngxiàng).
方向 means direction, the way something lies or moves. You use it when you ask someone which way to go.
Meaning: instructions (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
方 means side or direction and 向 means toward.
How do you pronounce it?
It is pronounced fāngxiàng, with a high level tone and then a falling tone.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Written instructions, such as directions for using a product, use a different word, so 方向 is only for the way to go.
Did you know?
- Chinese directions use a system of five directions rather than four. In addition to north, south, east, and west, there is a 'center' 中 which is treated as a distinct directional point.
- In some Chinese dialects, the concept of 方向 is tied to the 'Feng Shui' system of spatial arrangement. This system dictates that specific directions bring different types of energy or luck to a home.
- In traditional Chinese culture, the most important 方向 is south. This is why the character for 'south' 南 is central to many early concepts of orientation and why ancient palaces were often built facing south.
Examples in context
- 他找不到洗手間，只好向店員詢問方向。He couldn't find the restroom, so he had to ask the shopkeeper for directions.詢問方向 means to ask for directions.Tatoeba #13610519 by LeviHighway, translation #13949886 by frpzzd
- 他們往相反的方向去。They went in opposite directions.相反的方向 means opposite directions.Tatoeba #781114 by Martha, translation #681651 by Source_VOA
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
