指南针的发明及最终在航海上的应用是一个突破，对人类具有广泛的影响。
The invention of the compass, and eventually, its application in navigation, were breakthroughs of immense importance for mankind.
指南针首先用在航海上。
教堂的鸟类外形也是海上工人们的指南针：翅膀代表东西方向，喙和尾巴象征着南北方向。
The churchs bird-like features are used as a compass to direct sea workers - its wings represent East and West, while its beak and tail symbolise North and South.
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