Translation and Meaning of: 大通り - oodoori

If you've ever walked through a Japanese city, you've probably come across the word 大通り[おおどおり]. But what does it actually mean? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and practical uses of this expression in everyday Japan. Additionally, we will understand how it differs from similar terms and why it is so common on maps and urban orientation signs.

Meaning and translation of 大通り

The word 大通り[おおどおり] is composed of the kanjis 大 (large) and 通り (street, avenue), forming the literal meaning of "main avenue" or "big road." Unlike smaller streets or alleys, a 大通り is usually wide, busy, and often hosts shops, tourist attractions, or public transportation stations.

In an urban context, it is often used to indicate central roads in cities like Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto. For example, the famous Takeshita Street in Harajuku could be referred to as 大通り due to its heavy traffic and importance in the area. The closest translation in Portuguese would be "avenida" or "boulevard," depending on the context.

Origin and Cultural Use

The term 大通り emerged during the Edo period (1603-1868), when Japanese urban planning began to develop. At that time, the major roads were essential for the transportation of goods and movement between regions. Over time, these avenues became symbols of prosperity and connection, maintaining their relevance to this day.

Culturally, walking along a 大通り is more than just getting from place to place – it's an experience that combines shopping, gastronomy, and social interaction. Many of these avenues host festivals, such as the famous Gion matsuri in Kyoto, which takes place on one of the main 大通り of the city.

How to memorize and use correctly

A useful tip to remember the meaning of 大通り is to associate the kanji 大 with something large, like a busy avenue. 通り is a common word for "street" in Japanese, so the combination becomes easier to remember. If you are studying vocabulary, it’s worth creating flashcards with practical examples, such as "この大通りをまっすぐ行ってください" (Please go straight on this avenue).

In daily life, Japanese people use 大通り in both informal conversations and official directions. If you need to ask how to get to a place, phrases like "一番近い大通りはどこですか?" (Where is the nearest main avenue?) can be very helpful. The word also frequently appears on tourist maps and traffic signs.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

大路 (Ōro) - Main road, important route
幹線道路 (Kansen-dōro) - Trunk road, main connection road
メインストリート (Mein Sutorīto) - Main street, usually in an urban center
主要道路 (Shuyō dōro) - Main road, a route of great importance, focusing on relevance