Meaning and Usage
"沿う" (そう) primarily means "to run along" or "to follow" a physical line or a figurative guideline. It is often used when describing something that physically follows a path, such as a road or river, or when actions or plans align with rules, policies, or budgets.
Common Contexts
- Physical paths: roads, rivers, fences, or any linear feature.
- Abstract guidelines: company policies, budgets, plans, or rules.
Collocations and Patterns
- "川に沿って" (かわにそって): along the river
- "方針に沿う" (ほうしんにそう): to follow a policy
- "予算に沿って" (よさんにそって): according to the budget
Register and Nuance
"沿う" is a neutral verb suitable for both formal and informal contexts. When used figuratively, it implies conformity or compliance with a standard or guideline.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "沿う" with "沿える" (also read そう), which means "to place alongside" or "to add something to". Remember that "沿う" is about following or running along something, while "沿える" is about attaching or adding.