How to say "directions" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 指図さしずnoun, suru verb, transitive verbDirections in the sense of orders or instructions telling someone what to do, typically from a person in charge; it can sound like bossing someone around, and never means directions to a place.
- 用法ようほうnounDirections for use: how to use a product or medicine, such as on a label. Its core meaning is way of using something, so it does not mean directions from a person or to a place.
- 道順みちじゅんnounDirections to a place: the route or way to get somewhere. This is the word for asking or giving directions when traveling, and it has nothing to do with instructions or orders.
- 指示しじnoun, suru verb, transitive verbDirections as instructions or guidance from someone in charge, what to do and how. When directions means guidance rather than a route, this neutral word is usually what you want.
- 心得こころえnounFor directions this is seldom the word you want: it really means rules, guidelines, or points to keep in mind, things a person is expected to observe, rather than directions given by someone.
Use 道順 for directions to a place, 用法 for directions for use, and 指示 or 指図 for directions as instructions from someone, while 心得 is really about rules and guidelines.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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