縦
Meanings
Refers to the vertical direction or dimension, often contrasted with 横 (よこ, horizontal). Used for orientation, measurement, or arrangement.
This paper is 30 cm vertically and 20 cm horizontally.
Please arrange the photos vertically.
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).
This desk is 60 cm deep (front to back).
north-to-south
Refers to the north-south axis or direction, often in geographical or spatial contexts. Less common than the general vertical sense.
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).
Japanese companies have strong vertical (hierarchical) relationships.
In a vertical society, hierarchical relationships are emphasized.
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: 縦糸 (たていと)
Weave the warp and weft threads alternately.
Usage patterns
- 〈物〉を縦に置くto place something upright/vertically
I put the book on the shelf standing upright.
- 縦の関係a hierarchical (senior-junior) relationship
In the company, hierarchical relationships are given importance.
- 縦に並ぶto line up in a vertical row
The students walked lined up in a single file.
- 縦に長いlong in the vertical direction; elongated top-to-bottom
This building has a design that is elongated vertically.
Expressions
- 首を縦に振るnod one's head; nod yes; agree
- 縦と横vertical and horizontal; length and breadth · warp and weft; warp and woof
- 頭を縦に振るnod in agreement; say yes by nodding
- 横の物を縦にもしないtoo lazy to do anything; won't lift a finger
- 縦の物を横にもしないextremely lazy; won't lift a finger