Learning how to say “turn” in Japanese is an essential skill when navigating conversations, asking for directions, or discussing movement. In this guide, we will explore the various ways to express “turn” in both formal and informal contexts. While regional variations exist, we will primarily focus on the standard Japanese language, with occasional mentions of notable variations.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Turn”
In formal situations or when conversing with someone of higher authority or unfamiliarity, it’s crucial to use respectful language. Here are some formal ways to express “turn” in Japanese:
1. 右に曲がる (Migi ni magaru)
– This is the most common way to say “turn right” formally. Replace 右 (Migi) with 左 (Hidari) for “turn left.”
2. 右折する (Ushiro suru)
– This term is often used when referring to making a formal right turn while driving or biking. For “turn left,” replace 右 (Migi) with 左 (Hidari).
3. 曲がってください (Magatte kudasai)
– A polite request for someone to “please turn.” Replace 曲がる (Magaru) with 曲がって (Magatte) for “turn right” or 左に曲がって (Hidari ni magatte) for “turn left”.
2. Informal Ways to Say “Turn”
When conversing with friends, family, or in casual settings, it’s appropriate to use informal language. Here are some informal expressions for “turn” in Japanese:
1. 右に曲がって (Migi ni magatte)
– This is the casual equivalent of “turn right.” Replace 右 (Migi) with 左 (Hidari) for “turn left.”
2. 右折して (Ushiro shite)
– An informal way to say “make a right turn.” Replace 右 (Migi) with 左 (Hidari) to indicate “turn left.”
3. 曲がって (Magatte)
– In casual situations, simply saying “曲がって” can mean “turn” without specifying a direction. However, it is often understood from the context or gesturing.
3. Regional Variations
While the standard Japanese terms work universally, there are minor regional variations in some areas of Japan. Here are a few notable examples:
1. 横断する (Oudan suru)
– In Hokkaido and parts of Tohoku, “横断する” is used to mean “make a turn.” Replace 横断 (Oudan) with 右折 (Ushiro) for “turn right” or 左折 (Sasen) for “turn left.”
2. 方向転換する (Houkou tenkan suru)
– In some regions, particularly in Kansai dialect, “方向転換する” is used to describe “changing direction” or “turning.” Replace 方向転換 (Houkou tenkan) with 右に曲がる (Migi ni magaru) for “turn right” or 左に曲がる (Hidari ni magaru) for “turn left.”
4. Tips and Examples
Here are some additional tips and examples to help you effectively use the word “turn” in Japanese:
- When giving directions or discussing turns, it’s helpful to combine verbs like “行く (iku)” or “進む (susumu)” for “go” or “proceed.” For example, “右に曲がって行ってください (Migi ni magatte itte kudasai)” means “Please turn right and go.”
- If you want to mention a specific location to turn, use phrases such as “交差点 (Kousaten)” for “intersection” or “角 (Kado)” for “corner.” For instance, “角を右に曲がってください (Kado o migi ni magatte kudasai)” means “Please turn right at the corner.”
- When unsure about the direction, you can use phrases like “あの方へ (Ano hou e)” meaning “towards that direction” or “その辺です (Sono hen desu)” meaning “around there” to provide approximate guidance.
Examples:
1. Formal:
– 交差点を右に曲がってください。(Please turn right at the intersection.)
– 右折して、直進してください。(Make a right turn and proceed.)
– 左に曲がってください。(Please turn left.)
2. Informal:
– あの方へ曲がって。(Turn in that direction.)
– 右に曲がって、直進して。(Turn right and go straight.)
– 左に曲がって！(Turn left!)
Remember to practice these expressions and adjust your speech based on the level of formality and the context of the conversation.
Learning how to say “turn” in Japanese is a valuable skill that will greatly enhance your ability to navigate conversations and find your way around. By using these expressions correctly, you’ll nurture authentic and engaging interactions with native speakers. Enjoy exploring the rich language and culture of Japan!
