Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Navigate: meaning, definitions and examples

🧭
Add to dictionary

navigate

 

[ˈnæv.ɪ.ɡeɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

using maps

To plan and direct the route or course of a ship, aircraft, or other form of transportation using maps or other navigational aids.

Synonyms

direct, guide, pilot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
navigate

Used when discussing traveling through a physical space, especially in challenging conditions or unfamiliar areas. Can also be used metaphorically for dealing with situations or information.

  • She had to navigate the complex city streets without a map
  • He navigates through his daily tasks with ease
direct

Used when giving explicit instructions or orders, particularly in a leadership or supervisory role. Also common in the context of movies or plays.

  • The manager directed the employees to complete their tasks
  • The famous director directed the new blockbuster movie
pilot

Specifically used in the context of flying an aircraft or steering a boat. Could also be used metaphorically for steering through projects or innovations.

  • The experienced pilot smoothly landed the plane
  • She piloted the new project to success
guide

Used when providing help or advice to someone to show them the way, either physically, emotionally, or intellectually. Often implies a supportive role.

  • The teacher guided the student through the complex math problems
  • He guided us through the dense forest

Examples of usage

  • I need to navigate through this unfamiliar city using a map.
  • The captain navigated the ship safely through the storm.
Context #2 | Verb

computer programs

To move from one part of a website, computer program, or file to another.

Synonyms

browse, explore, scroll.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
navigate

Used when talking about finding or steering through a route or system. Often used in the context of travel, websites, or complex structures.

  • I had to navigate through the busy city streets to reach the hotel
  • You can navigate the website using the menu bar on the top
browse

Typically refers to looking through or casually searching for something, often used in the context of shopping or internet activities.

  • I like to browse the shelves for new books
  • She spends hours browsing the internet looking for new recipes
explore

Connotes a thorough or adventurous investigation or search, often used in the context of physical exploration, discovering new places, or learning new subjects.

  • They decided to explore the old castle
  • I want to explore different cultures while traveling
scroll

Refers specifically to moving visual content up or down on a screen, commonly used in the context of digital devices like phones, computers, or tablets.

  • You need to scroll down to see the rest of the article
  • She scrolled through her social media feed for hours

Examples of usage

  • You can navigate to the next page by clicking on the link.
  • She navigated through the menu to find the settings.
Context #3 | Noun

technology

The process or activity of accurately ascertaining one's position and planning and following a route.

Synonyms

direction, guidance, orientation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
navigate

Used when talking about finding a way through a physical or abstract space, such as a journey, a website, or a complex situation.

  • She helped us navigate through the forest
  • He knows how to navigate tough business negotiations
guidance

Used when referring to advice or information provided to resolve a problem or find a solution. Often has a supportive or instructive connotation.

  • The teacher's guidance was crucial for my success
  • He sought financial guidance from experts
direction

Commonly used when referring to the literal or metaphorical path one should follow. It indicates a specific pathway or guidance.

  • Can you give me directions to the nearest gas station? The project is moving in the right direction
orientation

Typically refers to the process of familiarization with a new environment or situation. Can also be used to describe the relative positioning of something.

  • The new employees attended an orientation session
  • He checked the map to get his orientation

Examples of usage

  • The GPS system helps with navigation during road trips.
  • Good navigation skills are essential for hiking in the wilderness.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'navigare', which means 'to sail' or 'to steer a ship'.
  • It combines 'navis' (ship) and 'agere' (to drive or lead).
  • Originally, it was used specifically for ships before being applied to other forms of travel.

History

  • Ancient seafarers relied on the stars and sun to navigate the sea, using celestial bodies as guides.
  • The first detailed maps emerged in the Middle Ages, helping sailors plot courses and understand the geography of the oceans.
  • With the invention of the compass in the 11th century, navigation became more reliable, leading to a new age of exploration.

Technology

  • Today, GPS technology allows people to navigate using satellites, making it easy to find directions anywhere on Earth.
  • In digital environments, navigation refers to how users move through websites and apps, guiding them to where they want to go.
  • Naval ships now employ advanced autodrive systems, significantly improving maritime navigation and safety.

Psychology

  • Navigating is not just physical; it also refers to how we find our way through complex information and decision-making in life.
  • Studies show that our spatial memory helps us create mental maps for navigating both physical spaces and social interactions.
  • The brain uses visual cues and prior experiences to navigate environments, whether it's familiar streets or a busy schedule.

Literature

  • Famous literary works often feature journeys where characters navigate through challenges, symbolizing personal growth.
  • In adventure novels, navigation metaphorically represents the heroes' paths toward their destinies, navigating both external and internal conflicts.
  • Poets often use navigational imagery to depict life’s paths, illustrating the complexities of choices and journeys.

Translations

Translations of the word "navigate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 navegar

🇮🇳 नेविगेट करना (navigate karna)

🇩🇪 navigieren

🇮🇩 navigasi

🇺🇦 навігувати

🇵🇱 nawigować

🇯🇵 航行する (kōkō suru)

🇫🇷 naviguer

🇪🇸 navegar

🇹🇷 seyretmek

🇰🇷 항해하다 (hanghaehada)

🇸🇦 التنقل (al-tanqil)

🇨🇿 navigovat

🇸🇰 navigovať

🇨🇳 导航 (dǎoháng)

🇸🇮 navigirati

🇮🇸 sigla

🇰🇿 навигация жасау (navigatsiya zhasau)

🇬🇪 ნავიგაცია (navigatsia)

🇦🇿 naviqasiya etmək

🇲🇽 navegar

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,324, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.