直角

ちょっかく

right angle

JLPT N2

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"直角" (ちょっかく) means "right angle," which is an angle of exactly 90 degrees. It is commonly used in geometry, construction, and everyday directions.

Common Contexts

You will often see "直角" in mathematical contexts, such as describing triangles or shapes, and in practical situations like describing how walls meet or giving directions.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 直角三角形 (ちょっかくさんかくけい): right-angled triangle, a basic geometric term.
  • 直角に曲がる: to turn at a right angle, often used in giving directions.
  • 直角に交わる: to intersect at a right angle, used in describing structures or lines.

Usage Notes

"直角" is a noun and is often combined with verbs like 曲がる (to turn) or 交わる (to intersect). It is a neutral term used in both formal and informal contexts. Learners sometimes confuse "直角" with "直線" (straight line), so remember "直角" specifically refers to the 90-degree angle, not just any straight line.

Example Sentences

このさんかくけいはちょっかくさんかくけいです。

This triangle is a right-angled triangle.

かべとゆかはちょっかくにまじわっています。

The wall and the floor intersect at a right angle.

ちょっかくにまがってください。

Please turn at a right angle.