行 — meaning in English: line

kou · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for row

選択肢

sentakushi

記録

kiroku

杭

kui

行

kou

工場

kōjō

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 行 (kou) in various contexts, particularly when discussing lines in diagrams, lists, or physical lines, such as queues. For example, you might hear it in a classroom setting when a teacher is explaining how to organize students in lines for an activity.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym of 行 is 線 (sen), which specifically means 'line' in a more geometric or graphical sense. While 行 (kou) can refer to organized lines like queues or lines in a list, 線 (sen) is more often used when discussing lines in mathematics or art.

Culture

The character 行 has a rich history, originating from ancient Chinese, where it depicted movement or a path. In modern Japanese, it embodies not just the concept of a line, but also the idea of progression and flow, symbolizing how life unfolds in a structured manner. This duality adds depth to its usage in everyday conversation.

FAQ

Q.What does 行 mean in Japanese?

行 (kou) means 'line' in Japanese and can refer to physical lines, such as queues, or abstract lines in diagrams and lists.

Q.How do you use 行 in a sentence?

You can use 行 in sentences like '列に並んでください' (Rei ni narande kudasai), which means 'Please line up.' Here, 行 conveys the idea of organizing people in a line.

Q.Is 行 used in both spoken and written Japanese?

Yes, 行 is used in both spoken and written Japanese. It's a versatile word that appears in various contexts, from casual conversations to academic discussions.

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