HSK 5 · VERSION 2.0#97
Comparing “cháo”, “xiàng”, and “wǎng”
朝 vs 向 vs 往
Comparison section · original #4 · level order #97
How it works
These three words all involve direction, but they are used slightly differently.
朝 (cháo) often emphasizes facing or direction toward something.
向 (xiàng) is more neutral and can be used for physical direction, target of action, or formal expression.
往 (wǎng) often emphasizes movement in a direction.
Example sentences
他站在门口，朝我点了点头。
He stood at the door and nodded toward me.
有问题可以直接向老师请教。
If you have questions, you can directly ask the teacher for advice.
过了这个路口以后，一直往前走就到了。
After passing this intersection, just keep walking forward and you will arrive.
Key point
A practical distinction:
朝 (cháo) = facing toward
向 (xiàng) = toward / to
往 (wǎng) = in the direction of movement