方位(ほうい)

ほうい
noun
direction, compass bearing
1. direction, compass bearing, cardinal point
The orientation or direction as indicated by a compass or relative to a fixed reference point. Used in navigation, geography, and traditional practices like feng shui.
方位(ほうい)を確認(かくにん)する。
To check the direction.
コンパスで方位(ほうい)を調(しら)べた。
I checked the bearing with a compass.
地図(ちず)の上(うえ)には方位(ほうい)を示(しめ)す記号(きごう)が必(かなら)ず載(の)っている。
Maps always include a symbol indicating the compass directions.

USAGE:
方位(ほうい) is a somewhat formal or technical term compared to the more everyday 方角(ほうがく) (direction). It is commonly used in navigation, cartography, and traditional practices.

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • 方位(ほうい)を確認(かくにん)する: to confirm one's bearings
  • 方位(ほうい)磁石(じしゃく): compass
  • 八(はち)方位(ほうい): the eight compass points
  • 方位(ほうい)記号(きごう): compass rose

RELATED WORDS:
方角(ほうがく) is the everyday synonym. 方向(ほうこう) (direction) is broader and refers to the direction of movement or facing, while 方位(ほうい) specifically refers to compass-based orientation.

general
Added 2026.2.23 19:01
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