Translation guide
The two fundamental thread directions in weaving: warp (vertical threads on a loom) and weft (horizontal threads woven through). In Japanese, this is expressed with the set phrase 経糸と緯糸 (tateito to yokoito) or the compound 経緯 (keii), which also metaphorically means 'circumstances' or 'details of a matter'.
Referring to the actual threads in a loom or woven fabric.
The standard, explicit phrase for 'warp and weft'. 経糸 (tateito) is warp, 緯糸 (yokoito) is weft.
この織物は経糸と緯糸に絹を使っています。
This fabric uses silk for the warp and weft.
Using the weaving metaphor to talk about the background, details, or course of events. This is a very common usage of 経緯 (keii).
経緯 has two distinct readings: たてぬき (tatenuki) for the literal weaving sense, and けいい (keii) for the metaphorical 'circumstances' sense. Using the wrong reading can cause confusion.
経緯 (keii) is very common in formal explanations, reports, and news. It's a natural way to say 'the background' or 'the process leading up to this'.
A compound word literally meaning 'warp and weft', but this reading (tatenuki) is specifically for the weaving sense. Less common than the phrase.
経緯の密度を調整する。
Adjust the density of the warp and weft.
Uses the more common kanji 縦 (vertical) and 横 (horizontal) for warp and weft. Slightly less technical than 経糸と緯糸.
縦糸と横糸が交差して布ができる。
Warp and weft intersect to create cloth.
The most common metaphorical use, meaning 'circumstances', 'details', or 'how things came to be'. Note the reading is keii, not tatenuki.
事件の経緯を説明してください。
Please explain the circumstances of the incident.
これまでの経緯をまとめます。
I will summarize the details up to now.
A common phrase meaning 'the circumstances of the matter' or 'how things happened'.
事の経緯を詳しく話してください。
Please tell me the details of what happened.