Meaning and Usage
"点線" (てんせん) means "dotted line" or "dashed line" in Japanese. It is commonly used in maps, diagrams, documents, and drawings to indicate boundaries, paths, or areas that are not solid or permanent.
Common Contexts
You will often see 点線 in instructions where you need to cut or fold paper, such as "この書類の点線部分を切り取ってください" (Please cut along the dotted line on this document). It also appears in maps to show walking paths or borders that are not physically marked.
Collocations and Patterns
- 点線で示す: to indicate with a dotted line
- 点線部分: the dotted line part
- 点線を切る: to cut along the dotted line
Register and Nuance
点線 is a neutral, standard term used in both formal and informal contexts. It is a technical term often seen in printed materials and signage.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 点線 with 破線 (はせん), which also means dashed line but can imply different styles or uses in technical drawing. For everyday use, 点線 is the safer and more common choice.