1.
wind direction
The direction from which the wind is blowing. A compound of 風 (wind) and 向 (direction). Also used figuratively to mean the direction of public opinion or the trend of a situation.
風向が変わった。
The wind direction changed.
風向を確認してからテントを張ろう。
Let's check the wind direction before pitching the tent.
世論の風向きが変わり、政府は方針を見直すことになった。
The direction of public opinion shifted, and the government decided to review its policy.
A compound of 風 (wind) and 向 (direction). The word 風向き (with き) is the more common everyday form. 風向 alone is used in meteorological and technical contexts.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 風向が変わる: the wind direction changes
- 風向を調べる: to check the wind direction
- 風向計: wind vane; anemoscope
- 風向き: wind direction (colloquial form with き suffix)
FIGURATIVE USAGE:
In its figurative sense, 風向き refers to the prevailing mood or trend of a situation, similar to the English expression "the way the wind blows."
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 風速: wind speed — often mentioned alongside wind direction in weather reports
- 風力: wind force; wind power — the strength of the wind
- 方角: direction; compass point — general directional orientation