Translation guide
Expresses a direct, unbending path or route, both literally and figuratively. In Japanese, this concept is conveyed through nouns, adjectives, and idiomatic phrases that emphasize linearity, directness, and lack of deviation.
Describing a road, route, or physical path that is straight and without curves.
The most common and natural way to say 'straight road/path'. 'まっすぐ' means straight, and '道' means road or path.
この道はまっすぐで走りやすい。
This road is straight and easy to drive on.
まっすぐな道を進んでください。
Please go along the straight road.
Literally 'straight line course'. Often used in sports, racing, or when emphasizing the linear nature of the course.
この競技場の直線コースは100メートルです。
The straight course of this stadium is 100 meters.
Emphasizes a perfectly straight, unbending road. More emphatic than まっすぐな道.
地平線まで一直線の道が続いていた。
A perfectly straight road stretched to the horizon.
Describing a life path, career, or process that is direct and without detours.
Also used figuratively to mean a straightforward path in life or career, without deviations.
彼はまっすぐな道を歩んできた。
He has walked a straight path in life.
To advance straight ahead without wavering, often used for single-minded pursuit of a goal.
彼女は目標に向かって一直線に進んでいる。
She is heading straight toward her goal.
Literally 'not taking side trips', used to describe a direct approach without distractions.
寄り道しないで大学まで一直線に進んだ。
I went straight to university without any detours.
Describing an honest, direct way of speaking or acting without evasion.
To say something frankly and directly. '率直' means frankness.
率直に言って、その計画はうまくいかないと思う。
To be frank, I don't think that plan will work.
Using the loanword 'straight' to mean saying something directly, often in casual conversation.
ストレートに言うと、君は間違っている。
To put it straight, you are wrong.