derecho
/deˈɾet͡ʃo/
The English word "entitlement" is translated into Spanish as derecho.
derecho refers to the right to have something. Depending on the context, it can also mean "law," referring to the legal system or the field of study.
Meaning: the right to have something (noun)
Which one should you use?
While derecho is the standard term for an entitlement, it is also used to mean "law." In certain Latin American contexts, the word prebenda may be used specifically to describe an undue privilege or favoritism.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some Latin American countries, prebenda is used to refer to an undue privilege or favoritism.
How does it change in a sentence?
To refer to multiple legal rights or civil rights, use the plural form derechos.
How do you pronounce it?
/deˈɾetʃo/
Did you know?
- The adjective derecho can also mean 'straight' or 'upright' when describing a physical object or a person's posture, distinct from its meaning as 'right' or 'law'.
- The word derecho is a doublet of the Spanish word directo, meaning 'direct'. Both words share the same Latin ancestor and the core concept of a 'straight' path or line.
- The phrase ir derecho al grano uses derecho to mean 'straight' and translates to 'getting straight to the point'.
Examples in context
- Tom tiene un sentido del derecho.Tom has a sense of entitlement.This sentence is useful for showing how to express having a sense of entitlement using derecho.Tatoeba #5131993 by albrusgher, translation #1487082 by Spamster
- Tengo el derecho a una explicación.I have the right to an explanation.
- El derecho al voto es fundamental.The right to vote is fundamental.
Example conversation
Sofía and Daniel are discussing employee benefits.
- SofíaTengo derecho a diez días de vacaciones.I have a right to ten vacation days.
- DanielYo también tengo ese derecho.I have that right too.
- Sofía¿Ya revisaste el contrato, Daniel?Did you check the contract already, Daniel?
- DanielSí, Sofía, lo revisé ayer.Yes, Sofía, I checked it yesterday.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry derecho, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries derecho, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
