道なり

• Reading: みちなり
• Romaji: michinari
• Kanji breakdown: 道 (michi) — road, path, way
• Pronunciation: /mi.tɕi.na.ɾi/

Meaning

Following the road; along the road as it goes; the natural course of the road.

A noun/adverb used almost exclusively when giving directions. 道なりに進む or 道なりに行く means 'to follow the road as it curves and turns without branching off.' An essential expression for understanding and giving directions in Japanese. Implies staying on the same road without turning at intersections.

Examples

1. この道を道なりに進むと駅が見えてきます。 If you follow this road, you'll see the station.
2. 道なりに五分ほど歩くと右側にコンビニがある。 If you follow the road for about five minutes, there's a convenience store on the right.
3. 交差点を曲がらずに道なりに行ってください。 Please continue along the road without turning at the intersection.

Usage Guide

Context: directions, navigation, daily life, travel

Tone: helpful

Origin & History

From native Japanese 道 (michi, road/path) + なり (nari, as it is/following the shape of). Literally 'as the road is,' describing movement that follows the natural course of a road without deviation.

Cultural Context

Era: Early Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal