Meaning
To provide directions to a location.
Cultural Background
Giving directions is a social duty. People often use 'sumimasen' to initiate the interaction. Directions are often given with cardinal directions (North/South), whereas Japanese often use landmarks. Directions are often given with high hospitality, sometimes involving tea or coffee.
Use Landmarks
When giving directions in Japan, always mention landmarks like convenience stores or traffic lights.
Politeness Matters
Always use 'sumimasen' before asking for directions to be polite.
Meaning
To provide directions to a location.
Use Landmarks
When giving directions in Japan, always mention landmarks like convenience stores or traffic lights.
Politeness Matters
Always use 'sumimasen' before asking for directions to be polite.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct verb.
迷っている人に、親切に道を＿＿＿＿。
The verb for giving directions is '教える'.
Which is the most polite way to ask?
駅への道を...
Adding 'ください' is the standard polite form.
Match the phrase to its meaning.
道を教える
It is the standard collocation for navigation.
Complete the response.
A: すみません、郵便局はどこですか？ B: ＿＿＿＿。
This is the most natural way to offer help.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises迷っている人に、親切に道を＿＿＿＿。
The verb for giving directions is '教える'.
駅への道を...
Adding 'ください' is the standard polite form.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
It is the standard collocation for navigation.
A: すみません、郵便局はどこですか？ B: ＿＿＿＿。
This is the most natural way to offer help.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsYes, '英語を教える' is correct. The verb is versatile.
No, it can be used for driving or cycling too.
You can say 'すみません、わかりません' (I'm sorry, I don't know).
Kanji is standard in writing, but hiragana is fine for beginners.
Pointing with one finger is sometimes considered rude; use your whole hand.
Yes, it is perfectly fine in professional emails.
Related Phrases
道案内をする
synonymTo guide someone
道に迷う
contrastTo get lost
道順
builds onRoute/Order of roads
