Translation guide
The English word 'direct' has several core meanings: giving guidance, being straightforward, and describing a route or connection. This guide organizes the most useful Japanese equivalents by these meanings.
To tell someone how to do something, give orders, or show the way.
The most common and versatile verb for giving directions, orders, or instructions. Used in work, daily life, and formal contexts.
上司が私に新しいプロジェクトを指示した。
My boss directed me to a new project.
The teacher directed the students to the assignment.
Implies guiding, coaching, or mentoring, often in educational or training settings. More about leading someone to improve.
コーチが選手を指導している。
The coach is directing the players.
Can sound bossy or overbearing. Often used when someone gives orders in a domineering way. Use with caution.
Can imply giving orders in an unwanted or condescending manner.
彼はいつも人に指図したがる。
He always wants to direct people.
To say something clearly without hiding your meaning; opposite of indirect or vague.
The standard adjective for a person or statement that is honest and straightforward. Positive nuance.
率直な意見を聞かせてください。
Please give me your direct opinion.
彼女はとても率直な人だ。
She is a very direct person.
Means 'direct' in the sense of not using an intermediary; can also describe speech that is blunt or to the point. Slightly more formal.
彼の直接的な言い方に驚いた。
I was surprised by his direct way of speaking.
Loanword from English. Often used for straightforward opinions or questions. Casual and common in conversation.
ストレートに言うと、その計画は無理だ。
To be direct, that plan is impossible.
Going from one place to another without changing or stopping.
Used for transportation that goes directly to a destination without stops. Common for trains, buses, flights.
東京まで直行のバスはありますか？
Is there a direct bus to Tokyo?
直行便で行きたいです。
I want to go by a direct flight.
General word for 'direct' as opposed to 'indirect'. Can be used for routes, connections, or relationships.
駅まで直接の道はありますか？
Is there a direct road to the station?
Involving a direct link between two people or things, without a middleman.
Adverb meaning 'directly'. Used for face-to-face meetings, phone calls, or any contact without an intermediary.
直接彼に話してください。
Please speak to him directly.
直接会って話したい。
I want to meet and talk directly.
To be in charge of making a film or show, guiding actors and crew.
The standard verb for directing a film, play, or TV program. The noun 'director' is 監督 (かんとく).
彼がその映画を監督した。
He directed that movie.
Used for directing a stage play, TV show, or event. Focuses on the artistic staging and presentation.
彼女が舞台を演出した。
She directed the play.
直接 (ちょくせつ) means 'directly' in a physical or procedural sense (no intermediary). 率直 (そっちょく) means 'frank' or 'straightforward' in speech or personality. Don't confuse them.
Saying 直接的な人 (ちょくせつてきなひと) can sound like 'a person who acts without an intermediary'. For a frank person, use 率直な人 (そっちょくなひと).