Translation guide
A sign giving information or directions, often found on roads or in public spaces.
A physical sign along a road or path that shows directions, distances, or place names.
A guidepost or signpost along a road or path, often traditional or stone. Can also be used metaphorically.
Something that serves as a guide or indicator for future actions or decisions.
道標 (みちしるべ) is specifically a guidepost or signpost, often traditional or metaphorical. 標識 (ひょうしき) is a general term for signs, especially traffic signs. 看板 (かんばん) is a signboard for shops or advertisements, not used for directional road signs.
The English word 'signpost' is often translated literally as サインポスト, but this is not commonly used in Japanese. Use the terms above instead.
An old signpost stands at the intersection.
A general term for guide signs, especially official road signs with directions.
Guide signs on expressways are green.
A general word for any sign or marker, including traffic signs. Often used in compounds.
What does that sign say?
A signboard, often for shops or advertisements. Not typically used for directional road signs.
There's a big signboard in front of the station.
Used metaphorically to mean a guide or beacon in life or a process.
This book will serve as a signpost in life.
A guiding principle or policy, like a compass needle.
This plan will serve as a signpost for the future.
An index or indicator, often used in statistics or economics.
GDP is an important signpost of the economy.