1.
crossroads, intersection
A place where two roads cross, forming a cross shape.
十字路で止まる。
To stop at a crossroads.
十字路を右に曲がってください。
Please turn right at the intersection.
この十字路は事故が多いので気をつけて。
Be careful at this intersection as there are many accidents.
2.
crossroads (figurative), critical juncture
A decisive point requiring an important choice or decision.
人生の十字路に立っている。
I'm standing at a crossroads in my life.
日本は歴史の十字路にある。
Japan is at a historical crossroads.
会社は重要な十字路に差しかかっている。
The company has reached an important crossroads.
十字路 literally means "cross-shaped road" (十字 = cross shape). While 交差点 is more commonly used for traffic intersections, 十字路 emphasizes the cross shape and is often used figuratively.
Common collocations:
- 十字路に立つ: to stand at a crossroads
- 十字路に差しかかる: to reach a crossroads
Related terms:
- 交差点: intersection (general term)
- 三叉路: three-way junction
- 分岐点: branch point, fork