水道

• Reading: すいどう
• Romaji: suidou
• Kanji breakdown: 水 (sui/mizu) — water; 道 (dō/michi) — way, path
• Pronunciation: /sɯ.i.doː/

Meaning

Water supply; water service; a water line. The system that delivers tap water to buildings.

Refers to the plumbing and water supply system. Common phrases include 水道水 (suidousui, tap water), 水道代 (suidoudai, water bill), and 水道管 (suidoukan, water pipe). Japan's tap water is generally safe to drink, which is notable compared to many other countries. Also used in geographical terms for straits.

Examples

1. 水道の水はそのまま飲めます。 You can drink the tap water as it is.
2. 今月は水道代が高かった。 The water bill was high this month.
3. 水道が壊れたので修理を頼みました。 The plumbing broke, so I called for repairs.

Usage Guide

Context: housing, utilities, daily life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 水 (sui, water) and 道 (dou, way/path). Literally 'water path,' referring to the channels and pipes that carry water.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal