経由

けいゆ

go by the way, via

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word 経由 (けいゆ) means "via" or "by way of" and is used to indicate passing through or going by a certain place on the way to a destination. It is commonly used in travel, shipping, and transportation contexts.

Common Collocations

  • 経由する: to go via or through
  • ~を経由して: indicating the route taken through a place
  • 経由便: a flight or transport service that goes via a certain location

Usage Notes

When using 経由, the place you pass through is marked with the particle を, followed by 経由して or 経由で. This word is more formal and often used in written or official contexts such as tickets, schedules, or announcements.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse 経由 with 通る (とおる), which also means "to pass through." However, 経由 emphasizes the route or connection, often implying a planned or official stop, while 通る is more general for passing through any place.

Register

経由 is neutral to formal and suitable for both spoken and written Japanese, especially in business, travel, and logistics contexts.

Example Sentences

とうきょうをけいゆしておおさかへいきます。

I will go to Osaka via Tokyo.

このにもつはなごやをけいゆしてはいそうされます。

This package will be delivered via Nagoya.

ひこうきはほんこんをけいゆしてヨーロッパにむかいます。

The airplane heads to Europe via Hong Kong.