通行

つうこう

passage, passing

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"通行" (つうこう) primarily refers to the act of passing through or the passage of people, vehicles, or traffic along a road or path. It is often used in contexts related to traffic regulations, road conditions, and movement permissions.

Common Contexts

You will frequently see "通行" in signs or announcements about road closures (通行止め), traffic restrictions, or permissions. It can refer to both pedestrian and vehicle passage.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 通行止め (つうこうどめ): road closure, no passage allowed.
  • 通行禁止 (つうこうきんし): passage prohibited.
  • 通行人 (つうこうにん): passerby, pedestrian.

Register and Nuance

"通行" is a neutral, formal noun often used in official or written contexts such as traffic signs, news reports, or public announcements. It is less common in casual conversation unless discussing traffic or road conditions.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse "通行" with "通過" (passing through a place without stopping). "通行" emphasizes the act of passing along a route or road, often with permission or regulation involved, while "通過" focuses on passing through a point or area, often briefly.

Example Sentences

このみちはくるまのつうこうがきんしされています。

Cars are prohibited from passing on this road.

つうこうどめのため、べつのルートをつかってください。

Because of the road closure, please use another route.

やかんはつうこうがすくなくなります。

There is less traffic at night.