Translation guide
A detour is a deviation from a planned or direct route, often due to an obstruction or to avoid something. In Japanese, the most common way to express this is 迂回 (ukai) for formal or written contexts, and 回り道 (mawarimichi) for everyday speech. The choice depends on formality and whether the detour is intentional or forced.
Take a detour (formal/road sign)
Take a detour (casual)
The speaker wants to describe or instruct someone to take an alternative route because the usual way is blocked or unavailable.
Formal or written term for a detour, often used in traffic reports, signs, and official announcements. Can be used as a noun or a suru-verb (迂回する).
Please take a detour ahead due to construction.
Common, everyday word for a detour or roundabout way. Implies taking a longer route, often intentionally or due to circumstances. Can be used as a noun or with .
Literally 'going the long way around.' Emphasizes that the route is longer than necessary. Often used when the detour is inconvenient.
The speaker wants to express that they are purposely taking a longer or different route to avoid a person, place, or situation, or to enjoy scenery.
The speaker wants to describe a metaphorical detour, such as a career change, a delay in plans, or an unexpected life event.
回り道 (mawarimichi) is the most versatile and neutral word for a detour, used in both physical and metaphorical senses. 遠回り (toomawari) emphasizes the extra distance or time, often with a negative nuance. 迂回 (ukai) is formal and mainly used for traffic or official detours.
The detour route is this way.
I took a detour because of an accident.
It's a detour, but this way is safer.
I went home the long way.
Works for intentional detours as well. The context makes it clear whether it's forced or voluntary.
I took a detour because I didn't want to see him.
Means 'stopping by' or 'dropping in' somewhere on the way. It's a detour with a purpose, like shopping or visiting. Not used for forced detours.
I made a detour to the bookstore on my way home.
Explicitly states 'to intentionally take the long way.' Used when emphasizing the deliberate nature of the detour.
I intentionally took the long way because the scenery is nice.
Commonly used metaphorically to mean a roundabout way in life or processes. It often carries a positive nuance of gaining experience.
Detours in life are also necessary.
Also used figuratively, but often emphasizes inefficiency or taking a longer path than needed.
Sorry for the roundabout explanation.
Rarely used figuratively; sounds very formal or technical. Might appear in business contexts for bypassing procedures.
There is no way to bypass the procedure.
I took a detour, but arrived earlier than expected.
I got tired from taking the long way.
Please detour due to construction.
The English loanword デトール (detōru) is not used in Japanese. Always use the native terms above.