Japanese word of the day: 地図 (Chizu)

What does 地図 (Chizu) mean?

地図 (Chizu) (noun) – Map; a visual representation of an area showing roads, landmarks, and geographical features. This word is essential for navigation, travel, and understanding locations in Japan and beyond.

Kanji details for 地 and 図

Character: 地 — ground, earth
Radical: earth 土

Character: 図 — map, drawing, plan, extraordinary, audacious
Radical: enclosure 囗

Example sentences with 地図 (Chizu)

• 地図を見て道を探しました。
  (Chizu o mite michi o sagashimashita.)
  🗺️ I looked at the map to find the way.

• 新しい地図を買いました。
  (Atarashii chizu o kaimashita.)
  🛒 I bought a new map.

• スマホの地図アプリを使っています。
  (Sumaho no chizu apuri o tsukatteimasu.)
  📱 I use a map app on my smartphone.

地図 (Chizu) in context

地図 is a practical and common word in Japanese, used whenever you need to find directions or understand geography. Whether you’re traveling in Japan or exploring a new city, 地図 helps you navigate streets, landmarks, and regions.

You’ll often hear it in phrases like 地図を見る (chizu o miru, to look at a map), 地図帳 (chizuchō, atlas), and 地図記号 (chizukigō, map symbols).

With the rise of smartphones, 地図 apps have become essential tools for navigation, but knowing the word and how to use a physical 地図 is still very useful.