1.
shortcut, shorter way
A route that is shorter or quicker than the usual path. Can also be used figuratively for a faster method to achieve something.
近道を通って学校に行った。
I took a shortcut to school.
この道は近道ですか。
Is this road a shortcut?
成功への近道はない。
There is no shortcut to success.
Figurative use
近道をしたら迷ってしまった。
I tried to take a shortcut but ended up getting lost.
公園の中を通ると駅までの近道になる。
Going through the park is a shortcut to the station.
COMPOUND: 近い (near, close) + 道 (road, path)
COMMON EXPRESSIONS:
- 近道を通る (take a shortcut)
- 近道をする (take a shortcut)
- 〜への近道 (shortcut to ~)
ANTONYM: 遠回り (detour, roundabout way)
The word can be used both literally (for physical routes) and figuratively (for methods or approaches).
Related Words
Antonym:
遠回り