Meaning and Usage
"四つ角" (よつかど) literally means "four corners" and is commonly used to refer to a crossroads or an intersection where four roads meet. It is a common term in everyday conversation when giving directions or describing locations.
Common Contexts
You will often hear "四つ角" when someone is explaining how to get somewhere, especially in urban or suburban areas. It can refer to any intersection with four corners, typically with traffic lights or stop signs.
Collocations and Patterns
- 四つ角を曲がる: to turn at the intersection
- 四つ角の信号: the traffic light at the crossroads
- 四つ角で待ち合わせ: to meet at the crossroads
These phrases are useful for giving or understanding directions.
Register and Nuance
"四つ角" is a neutral term suitable for both casual and polite conversation. It is not formal but is widely understood and used in daily life.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "四つ角" with "交差点" (こうさてん), which also means intersection. While both are correct, "四つ角" emphasizes the four corners specifically, whereas "交差点" is a more general term for any intersection. Use "四つ角" when you want to highlight the four-corner shape of the crossing.