Translation guide
The English word "sideways" describes movement, direction, or orientation to the side. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; the best choice depends on whether you mean moving sideways, looking sideways, turning something sideways, or a sideways glance. This guide covers the most natural expressions for each situation.
Describing movement or orientation that is lateral, not forward or backward.
The most common way to say 'sideways' for movement or position. 横 means 'side' and に marks direction or location.
He moved sideways.
Please place the box sideways.
Emphasizes facing or orienting sideways. Often used for turning something to face the side.
Please lie on your side.
Take a picture sideways (landscape orientation).
Technical or formal term for 'in a lateral direction'. Used in engineering or scientific contexts.
Force is applied sideways.
Looking at something indirectly, often with suspicion or without turning the head.
Literally 'look with sideways eyes'. Implies a glance without fully turning, often with a negative nuance like suspicion or disdain.
He glanced at me sideways.
To glance quickly or furtively, not necessarily sideways but often used for a brief sideways look.
She glanced sideways at the clock.
A sidelong glance, often flirtatious or seductive. Used in romantic contexts.
Rotating an object so its side faces forward or its orientation changes.
Lateral steps or shuffles, common in sports training or dance.
When a plan, project, or situation goes wrong or deviates from the intended path.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'sideways'. Translating directly as 'サイドウェイズ' is not natural. Always choose the expression that fits the specific action or orientation.
横 (よこ) is a noun meaning 'side', and 横に means 'to the side' or 'sideways' for movement or location. 横向き (よこむき) means 'side-facing' and emphasizes orientation. Use 横に for moving sideways, and 横向きに for turning to face sideways.
彼女は流し目を送った。
She cast a sideways glance.