出口

The word refers primarily to a physical point of departure from a space. In Japanese, it is the direct antonym of 入口 (iriguchi - entrance). While it is most commonly used for doors, gates, or station exits, it is also frequently used in a metaphorical sense to describe a solution or a way to escape a difficult situation.

In a metaphorical context, the phrase 出口が見えない (deguchi ga mienai - the exit is not visible) is a common idiomatic expression used when someone feels trapped in a crisis or a dead-end situation with no apparent solution. This usage conveys a sense of hopelessness or prolonged struggle.

Another specialized usage is 出口戦略 (deguchi senryaku - exit strategy), often used in economics or business to describe a planned way to end a specific policy or investment without causing instability.