Translation guide
The direction or region between north and west. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with the compound word 北西 (hokusei). For giving directions, describing locations, or talking about weather patterns, 北西 is the standard term. The older, more literary term 西北 (seihoku) also exists but is less common in everyday speech.
Referring to the direction or compass point between north and west.
Standard modern Japanese word for 'northwest'. Used in weather forecasts, maps, and everyday conversation.
The wind is blowing from the northwest.
This room faces northwest.
Older or more literary term for 'northwest'. Still understood but less common in daily speech. Sometimes used in proper names or classical contexts.
Explicit phrase meaning 'the direction of northwest'. Useful for clarity in instructions.
Please proceed in the direction of northwest.
Referring to a region or area located in the northwest part of a larger area.
Describing wind or weather coming from the northwest.
Both mean 'northwest', but 北西 is the standard modern term used in daily life, weather reports, and maps. 西北 is older and more literary; you might encounter it in classical literature or some place names, but it sounds archaic in conversation.
Japanese combines the characters for north (北) and west (西) to form northwest (北西). The order is always north-south-east-west (e.g., 北東 northeast, 南西 southwest, 南東 southeast). This is the opposite of English 'northwest' but consistent with the Chinese-derived system.
その寺は町の西北にある。
The temple is in the northwest of the town.
The park is in the northwest part of the city.
There is a risk of heavy snow in the northwest region.