Meaning and Usage
"開通" (かいつう) primarily refers to the opening or commencement of service for infrastructure such as roads, railways, or communication lines. It is commonly used in formal or news contexts to announce that something like a new subway line, internet connection, or road has become operational.
Common Contexts
- Transportation: opening of new train lines, roads, or highways.
- Communication: activation or availability of internet or telephone lines.
Collocations and Patterns
- 新しい路線が開通する (a new line opens)
- インターネット回線が開通する (internet connection is activated)
- 道路の開通で (with the opening of a road)
These collocations emphasize the start of service or availability.
Register and Nuance
"開通" is a formal noun and verb (when combined with する) often found in official announcements, news reports, or technical contexts. It is not typically used in casual conversation unless discussing infrastructure developments.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "開通" with "開始" (start/begin) which is more general. "開通" specifically implies opening or activation of a service or route, not just any beginning. Use "開通" when referring to infrastructure or communication services becoming available.