noun
Refers to the vertical direction or dimension, often contrasted with 横 (よこ, horizontal). Used for orientation, measurement, or arrangement.
この紙は縦が30センチ、横が20センチです。
This paper is 30 cm vertically and 20 cm horizontally.
写真を縦に並べてください。
Please arrange the photos vertically.
noun
front-to-back; length
Used for the depth or length dimension, such as the front-to-back measurement of an object or space. Often contrasted with 横 (width) or 高さ (height).
この机は縦が60センチあります。
This desk is 60 cm deep (front to back).
noun
north-to-south
Refers to the north-south axis or direction, often in geographical or spatial contexts. Less common than the general vertical sense.
日本列島は縦に長い。
The Japanese archipelago is long from north to south.
noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
vertical relationship; hierarchy
Describes hierarchical relationships, such as senior-junior or superior-subordinate, often in social or organizational contexts. Common in phrases like 縦社会 (vertical society).
日本の会社は縦の関係が強い。
Japanese companies have strong vertical (hierarchical) relationships.
縦社会では上下関係が重視される。
In a vertical society, hierarchical relationships are emphasized.
noun
Only when written 経
Technical term in weaving for the longitudinal threads. Often used in compound 経糸 (たていと). The kanji 経 is specific to this sense.
See also: 経糸 (たていと)
経糸と緯糸を交互に織る。
Weave the warp and weft threads alternately.
Used specifically for the warp in weaving, as in 経糸 (たていと).
横 means horizontal, width, or side; the direct antonym of 縦 in spatial contexts.
高さ means height as a measurable attribute, while 縦 can refer to the vertical dimension more broadly.
上下 means up and down or top and bottom, often used for vertical movement or hierarchy, but 縦 focuses on the axis or relationship itself.
The kanji 縦 is composed of 糸 (thread) and 従 (follow/obey), suggesting threads that run lengthwise, which aligns with the warp sense. The reading たて is native Japanese. The exact historical derivation is uncertain.