(そうこうちゅう)

そうこうちゅう
noun
while driving; while in motion; while running (of a vehicle)
1. while driving; while in motion; while running (of a vehicle)
Describes the state of a vehicle being in motion on the road or tracks. Frequently seen on safety signs and in traffic regulations, and almost always refers to vehicles rather than people.
走行中(そうこうちゅう)はシートベルトを着用(ちゃくよう)してください。
Please wear your seatbelt while the vehicle is in motion.
走行中(そうこうちゅう)のスマホ操作(そうさ)禁止(きんし)されている。
Using a smartphone while driving is prohibited.
走行中(そうこうちゅう)突然(とつぜん)エンジンが()まって、とても(こわ)(おも)いをした。
The engine suddenly stopped while driving, and it was a very scary experience.

A compound of 走行(そうこう) (traveling, running of a vehicle) and (ちゅう) (during). Refers to the state of a vehicle being in motion. Very commonly seen on signs, in safety instructions, and in traffic-related contexts. Almost always refers to vehicles (cars, trains, buses), not people running.

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • 走行中(そうこうちゅう)車両(しゃりょう): a vehicle in motion
  • 走行中(そうこうちゅう)(せき)()たないでください: please do not stand while the vehicle is moving
  • 走行中(そうこうちゅう)異音(いおん)がする: to hear a strange noise while driving

SIMILAR WORDS:

  • 運転中(うんてんちゅう) — while driving (focuses on the driver's activity)
  • 停車中(ていしゃちゅう) — while stopped (the opposite state)
  • 移動中(いどうちゅう) — while moving; in transit (broader, includes walking or any travel)