道順
michijun
The Japanese word for directions (meaning a route or the way to get somewhere) is 道順 (michijun).
道順 is used to describe the specific sequence of turns or the physical route one takes to reach a destination.
Meaning: instructions (noun)
Which one should you use?
道順 specifically refers to a physical way or route.
How do you pronounce it?
michijun
Did you know?
- Japanese directions often rely on landmarks like convenience stores rather than street names, as many small streets in residential areas have no names at all.
- The kanji 道 in 道順 refers to a physical road, but it also represents a spiritual path or discipline, as seen in 'martial arts' (武道 / budō).
- While 道順 (michijun) describes a route, if you ask a person for 'directions' to a location, they are more likely to use the word 道案内 (michian'nai), which literally translates to 'road guidance'.
Examples in context
- 道順を教えてください。Michijun o oshiete kudasai.Please tell me the directions.
- 正確な道順が分かりません。Seikaku na michijun ga wakarimasen.I do not know the exact directions.
- 地図に道順を書いておきました。Chizu ni michijun o kaite okimashita.I have drawn the directions on the map.
Example conversation
Yui is lost in a new neighborhood and asks Yota for help.
- 結衣 Yuiすみません、道順を教えていただけますか？Sumimasen, michijun o oshiete itadakemasu ka?Excuse me, could you tell me the directions?
- 陽太 Yotaはい、この道を真っ直ぐ行ってください。Hai, kono michi o massugu itte kudasai.Yes, please go straight down this street.
- 結衣 Yuiあ、分かりました。ありがとうございます！A, wakarimashita. Arigatou gozaimasu!Oh, I see. Thank you very much!
- 陽太 Yotaいいえ、お気をつけて。Iie, oki o tsukete.No problem, take care.
