Meaning and Usage
"案内" (あんない) primarily means "guidance" or "information," often related to showing someone around or providing directions. It can be used as a noun or as a verb when combined with する (案内する), meaning "to guide" or "to show the way."
Common Contexts
You will often hear "案内" in places like stations, tourist spots, or offices where someone provides directions or explanations. For example, "観光案内" refers to tourist information, and "案内係" is a guide or attendant.
Collocations and Patterns
- 案内する: to guide or show someone around.
- 案内所: information desk or center.
- 案内係: person in charge of guiding.
- 観光案内: tourist information.
Register and Politeness
"案内" is neutral and polite enough for everyday use, including formal situations like business or customer service.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "案内" with "案じる" (to worry) because of similar kanji, but their meanings and usage are quite different. Remember "案内" is about guidance or information, not emotions.