Translation and Meaning of: 十字路 - jyuujiro

If you have ever wondered what the Japanese word 十字路[じゅうじろ] means, this article will clarify its meaning, origin, and everyday use in Japan. In addition to explaining the translation and correct writing, we will explore how this word is perceived culturally and in what contexts it appears. If you are studying Japanese or simply curious about the language, understanding terms like this can enrich your vocabulary and cultural knowledge. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide accurate and useful information for those looking to learn Japanese authentically.

Meaning and writing of 十字路

The word 十字路 [じゅうじろ] literally means "crossroad" or "intersection." It is composed of the kanji 十 (juu, "ten" or the shape of a cross), 字 (ji, "character" or "space"), and 路 (ro, "path"). Together, these characters form the idea of a place where two or more paths cross, creating an intersection. This visual representation is quite clear, as the kanji 十 refers to the shape of a cross.

It is worth noting that 十字路 is a common word in Japan, frequently used in maps, traffic signs, and urban indications. Unlike some more technical terms, it appears in both formal and informal contexts, making it useful for Japanese learners at different proficiency levels.

Everyday and cultural use

In everyday life, Japanese people use 十字路 to refer to intersections of streets or roads. For example, when giving directions, someone might say: 「次の十字路を右に曲がってください」 (Tsugi no jūjiro o migi ni magatte kudasai), which means "Turn right at the next intersection." This type of usage is common in busy cities, where streets intersect frequently.

Culturally, crossroads like those represented by 十字路 also have interesting symbolism in Japan. In some traditions, these places are seen as points of decision or even as spaces where different worlds meet. Although this meaning is not as emphasized in modern usage, the word carries with it a certain historical and folkloric weight.

Tips for memorization

An effective way to memorize 十字路 is to associate the kanjis that compose it with their visual representation. The character 十, for example, resembles a cross, while 路 indicates a path. Together, they create the mental image of an intersection, which makes it easier to recall. Another tip is to practice writing the word while mentally visualizing a crossroads, reinforcing the connection between the term and its meaning.

Additionally, listening to and repeating phrases that contain 十字路 can help solidify the pronunciation and context of use. Watching videos or reading materials that mention the word in real situations, such as traffic instructions or urban narratives, is also a useful strategy for internalizing its correct usage.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 交差点 (Kōsaten) - Intersection point of roads.
• 分岐点 (Bunkiten) - Bifurcation point, where the roads split.
• 交差路 (Kōsaro) - Crossroad, a road that intersects with another.
• 分岐路 (Bunkiro) - Branching path, a route that splits in different directions.
• 交差口 (Kōsakuchi) - Entrance or exit of an intersection.
• 分岐口 (Bunkiguchi) - Fork in the road, where the paths diverge.
• 交わり (Mawari) - Intersection or meeting refers more to a gathering than to a road crossing.
• 分かれ道 (Wakare-michi) - Separation path, where a road splits into various directions.

十字路

Romaji: jyuujiro
Kana: じゅうじろ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: crossroads

Meaning in English: crossroads

Definition: A crossing or a fork in the road. A place where paths intersect.

Example Sentences - (十字路) jyuujiro

See below some example sentences:

私は十字路で迷っています。

Watashi wa juujiro de mayotte imasu

I'm lost at a crossroads.

I'm lost at the crossroads.

• 私 - The personal pronoun that means "I" in Japanese.
• は - topic particle that indicates that "I" is the topic of the sentence
• 十字路 - A palavra em japonês para "cruzamento" é クロスロード (kurosurōdo).
• で - particle that indicates the location where the action occurs, in this case, the "intersection"
• 迷っています - 迷っている (mayotte iru)