標識

• Reading: ひょうしき
• Romaji: hyoushiki
• Kanji breakdown: 標 (hyou) — mark, sign; 識 (shiki) — discern, recognise
• Pronunciation: /çoː.ɕi.ki/

Meaning

A sign; marker; signpost providing information, directions, or warnings.

A noun referring to official signs and markers, especially road signs (道路標識), trail markers, and safety signs. Distinct from 看板 (commercial signboard) in that 標識 implies an official, regulated sign with standardised symbols. Common in driving contexts, hiking, and public safety. Also used in biology for tagging/marking animals (標識調査, mark-recapture survey).

Examples

1. 道路の標識を見落として道を間違えた。 I missed a road sign and took a wrong turn.
2. この辺りは標識が少なくて迷いやすい。 There aren't many signs around here, so it's easy to get lost.
3. 新しい標識が設置されて分かりやすくなった。 New signs have been put up, making it much easier to navigate.

Usage Guide

Context: driving, travel, public safety, hiking

Tone: practical

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 標 (hyou, mark/sign) + 識 (shiki, discern/recognise). Literally 'mark for recognition,' describing a sign that helps people identify or navigate their surroundings.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal