Japanese meaning of 針路変更
Reading:
しんろへんこう (shinro henkou)
English Translation:
Change of course or direction
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
A deliberate change of course after reassessment of goals or conditions; stronger than a minor adjustment, closer to a strategic pivot.
Cultural Context:
Used literally in navigation and figuratively in policy, product strategy, and career moves. Implies ownership of the decision rather than drift.
目的や状況の再評価にもとづく進路の再設定。微調整よりも大きく舵を切る「方針転換」に近い。
航海の字義どおりの意味のほか、政策・事業戦略・キャリアで比喩的に用いる。成り行きではなく主体的な決断の含意がある。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Noun phrase with “を行う” or “を決める” to describe changing the course or direction (“針路変更を行う”).
• Common in navigation and metaphorical planning.
Trap for English Speakers
Might be mistaken as minor adjustment, but it implies a deliberate, often significant shift.
Example
Basic Example
嵐を避けるため針路変更を余儀なくされた。
We were forced to change course to avoid the storm.
Applied Example
目的地を目前にして針路変更、まさかの寄り道を決断した。
With the destination in sight, they changed course, deciding on an unexpected detour.