verb / noun HSK 4
to face (direction) · to be oriented towards · orientation · direction
Meaning
朝向 refers to the direction something faces or is oriented towards. It can describe physical orientation (like a building facing south) or metaphorical direction (like a policy aimed at a goal). The word combines 朝 (toward) and 向 (direction).
Usage
Commonly used when describing the orientation of buildings, rooms, or objects. Also appears in formal contexts to describe the direction or aim of policies, development, or efforts. The verb usage often takes 着 (zhe) or follows patterns like '朝向东方' (facing east).
Examples
- 01这间卧室朝向东方，早上阳光很好。, .This bedroom faces east, so the morning sunlight is very nice.
- 02我们的改革政策朝向可持续发展。.Our reform policies are oriented toward sustainable development.
Characters
Measure words
- 个这个朝向很好
Common collocations
- 朝向南方facing south
- 房子朝向the orientation of the house
- 朝向未来facing the future, oriented toward the future
Antonyms
Origin
Both characters independently convey directional meaning. 朝 originally depicted the sun rising (朝阳) suggesting movement toward light, while 向 shows a window or opening facing a direction. Combined, they emphasize orientation.