Ways to say it
| Chinese | Romanization (Wiktionary) |
|---|---|
| 路徑 / 路径 | lùjìng |
| 蹊徑 / 蹊径 | xījìng |
| 道路 | dàolù |
In Chinese, the term used for 'path' varies based on whether you are describing a physical track, a technical route or a metaphorical direction in life. 路徑 / 路径 is often used to emphasize a predetermined route or an abstract path. The word 道路 can refer to a physical road or highway, but it is also used for broader metaphorical paths, such as the path to success. 蹊徑 / 蹊径 is reserved for narrow, secluded or unconventional paths, frequently used metaphor to describe an unexpected way to solve a problem. Additionally, the term 路线 is often used casually to refer to a specific route or itinerary.
What does it mean word for word?
The word 路徑 / 路径 (lùjìng) is composed of 路 (road/path) and 徑 (path/lane).
Which one should you use?
路徑 / 路径 (lùjìng) typically refers to a specific route or a technical path. In contrast, 道路 (dàolù) is a more general term for a physical road or a metaphorical path in life. Finally, 蹊徑 / 蹊径 (xījìng) is distinct because it specifically describes a narrow, secluded or unconventional path.
How do you pronounce it?
lùjìng
Did you know?
- While 道路 refers to a road, it is also the root of the word 道 (dào), which represents the fundamental principle of the universe in Taoism.
- The character 路 for 'road' originally depicted a foot and a crossroads in ancient script. This reflects the ancient Chinese view of the path as a site of decision and movement.
- The term 蹊徑 / 蹊径 (xījìng) carries a connotation of being 'clever' or 'ingenious', often appearing in the Chinese idiom 開辟蹊徑 (kāipì xījìng), which means to blaze a new trail.
Examples in context
- 跟隨他的道路。Follow his path.This sentence uses 道路 to show following a path.Tatoeba #13138965 by LeviHighway, translation #12677895 by anzart
- 他在一条狭窄的道路上走。The man is hiking on a narrow path.This sentence uses 道路 to describe hiking on a narrow path.Tatoeba #3625821 by trieuho, translation #3625823 by trieuho
- 教育是通往幸福、和平、正义与成功的道路。Education is the path to happiness, peace, righteousness, and success.This sentence uses 道路 to describe a metaphorical path toward abstract concepts like success.Tatoeba #1394909 by mtdot, translation #1008024 by AOCinJAPAN
- 人生的路径是自己选择的The path of life is one's own choice.
- 你觉得去那儿的最佳路线是什么?What do you think is the best route to get there?
- 我们可以通过不同的途径找到答案We can find the answer through various means.
- 走在正确的道路上Walk on the right path.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “path” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
