通路

つうろ

passage, pathway

JLPT N2

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"通路" (つうろ) refers to a physical passage or pathway that allows people or things to move through a space. It is commonly used for corridors, aisles, or any narrow way connecting different areas.

Common Contexts

You will often hear "通路" in places like buildings, theaters, emergency exits, or logistics where clear pathways are important. It emphasizes the route or corridor itself rather than the destination.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 通路をまっすぐ進む: to go straight along the passage
  • 狭い通路: a narrow passage
  • 裏の通路: a back passage

These collocations highlight directions, size, or location of the passage.

Register and Nuance

"通路" is a neutral, standard word suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is more concrete and physical than abstract terms like "道" (road) or "道筋" (route).

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse "通路" with "道路" (road) which usually refers to outdoor streets. Remember "通路" is mostly indoor or within a facility, focusing on the passageway itself.

Example Sentences

ひじょうぐちへはこのつうろをまっすぐすすんでください。

Please go straight along this passage to the emergency exit.

えいがかんのざせきのあいだにせまいつうろがある。

There is a narrow passage between the seats in the movie theater.

しょうひんのはんにゅうはうらのつうろからおねがいします。

Please bring in the goods through the back passage.