Japanese word

高速道路

Pronunciation

Romajikōsokudōro

Meaning

  • nounexpressway

Example

高速道路を使います。kō soku dō ro o tsuka i ma su

I use the expressway.

Illustration for 高速道路 (expressway)

More examples

長距離を移動するときは高速道路が便利です。chō kyo ri o i dō su ru to ki wa kō soku dō ro ga ben ri de su

The expressway is convenient when traveling long distances.

Core concept

Describes a road built for fast motor traffic, with controlled access and few intersections.

Common phrases

  • 高速道路を使うkō soku dō ro o tsuka u

    use the expressway

  • 高速道路に乗るkō soku dō ro ni no ru

    get on the expressway

  • 高速道路を降りるkō soku dō ro o o ri ru

    get off the expressway

  • 高速道路に入るkō soku dō ro ni hai ru

    enter the expressway

  • 高速道路から出るkō soku dō ro ka ra de ru

    leave the expressway

Similar words

ハイウェイhaiwei: A major road for motor traffic, with access and crossings varying by local rules.

Definition in Japanese

自動車が高速で走行できるように整備された道路。ji dō sha ga kō soku de sō kō de ki ru yō ni sei bi sa re ta dō ro

Word origin

The Sino-Japanese word 高速道路 (kōsoku dōro, "expressway") combines 高速 (kōsoku, "high speed") and 道路 (dōro, "road"): 高 (kō) means "high," 速 (soku) "fast," 道 (dō) "road," and 路 (ro) "route."

Usage tips

  • English speakers often use highway as a general term, but expressway normally suggests a road with controlled entrances, separated traffic, and no ordinary street crossings.

Word lists with this word