Journey Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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journey
[ˈdʒɜːrni ]
Definitions
life
A journey is the process of travelling from one place to another, especially when a long distance is involved. It can also refer to a figurative journey, such as personal growth or development.
Synonyms
expedition, travel, trip, voyage.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| journey |
A 'journey' typically refers to the process of traveling from one place to another, especially when it takes a long time or is difficult.
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| trip |
A 'trip' usually refers to a short journey to a destination and back, usually for leisure or a brief purpose.
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| voyage |
A 'voyage' specifically refers to a long journey involving travel by sea or in space. It has a sense of adventure or exploration.
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| travel |
'Travel' is a general term for the act of moving from place to place. It doesn't necessarily imply a long distance or specific purpose.
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| expedition |
An 'expedition' implies a longer trip organized for a specific purpose, often for exploration, research, or adventure. It also has a connotation of being well planned and involving a group of people.
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Examples of usage
- She embarked on a journey around the world.
- The journey of self-discovery is an important part of life.
- The journey to success is often filled with obstacles.
- Each journey begins with a single step.
- The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
progress
To journey means to travel from one place to another. It can also refer to the process of making progress or advancing towards a goal.
Synonyms
advance, move, progress, travel.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| journey |
Use 'journey' when referring to a long trip from one place to another, often involving travel over a considerable distance or time. This word can be used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.
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| travel |
Use 'travel' to discuss the act of moving from one place to another, usually over a considerable distance, either for pleasure, work, or other purposes. It is typically associated with leisure or necessary long-distance movement.
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| move |
Use 'move' for describing both physical movement from one place to another and metaphorical shifts. It generally implies a change of position or state.
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| progress |
Use 'progress' when discussing the development or improvement in a particular area over time, often implying steady improvement or forward movement in non-physical contexts.
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| advance |
Employ 'advance' when describing moving forward or making progress towards a specific goal or objective. This term is frequently used in contexts involving technology, science, or any pre-planned activity.
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Examples of usage
- They journeyed across the desert.
- The company journeyed towards success.
- She journeyed through hardship to achieve her dreams.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Journeys are central themes in many cultures' folklore and mythology, representing life's path and trials.
- In literature, journeys symbolize personal growth and transformation, often leading characters to discover their true selves.
- The concept of a journey can be spiritual, as many religions view life's journey as a path toward enlightenment or fulfillment.
Literature
- Many classic novels, such as 'The Odyssey' and 'The Lord of the Rings', revolve around epic journeys undertaken by heroic characters.
- The term 'Bildungsroman' refers to a coming-of-age story that often includes a physical journey reflecting the protagonist's growth.
- Journey-themed poetry, like Robert Frost's 'The Road Not Taken', explores choices and their implications in life.
Psychology
- Psychologically, a journey can be a metaphor for change and personal development, marking life's milestones.
- Therapeutic practices sometimes use journey metaphors in counseling to help individuals process their emotional or psychological transitions.
- A 'mental journey' can refer to introspective processes, where an individual explores thoughts and feelings.
Pop Culture
- In video games, journeying is often a key gameplay element, allowing players to explore vast worlds and complete quests.
- Movies like 'Up' and 'The Secret Life of Walter Mitty' emphasize physical journeys mirroring emotional experiences.
- Music often describes journeys, such as in songs that tell stories about travel, self-discovery, or longing for home.
Origin of 'journey'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'journey' comes from the Old French 'journée', which means 'a day's travel'.
- In the Middle Ages, 'journey' referred specifically to travel that would take a day.
- The root 'jour' in 'journey' also relates to the Latin 'diurnus', which means daily.
The word 'journey' originated from the Old French word 'jornee', meaning 'a day's travel' or 'a day's work'. It entered Middle English in the 13th century with the same meaning. Over time, the term evolved to encompass not just physical travel, but also metaphorical journeys of growth and progress. The concept of a journey has been a central theme in literature, art, and human experience, symbolizing the passage through life and the quest for knowledge and fulfillment.
See also: journeyer, journeying, journeys.