What does it mean word for word?
The phrase sigue todo recto is composed of sigue (continue), todo (all/entirely) and recto (straight).
Which one should you use?
While recto is common, the word derecho is a very frequent synonym used in many Spanish-speaking regions to mean "straight ahead".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, it is common to say sigue todo recto. In Mexico, sigue todo derecho and sigue de frente are common phrases meaning "go straight ahead".
How does it change in a sentence?
To use the polite usted form when giving directions, change sigue to siga (e.g., siga todo recto). If you are addressing more than one person, use the form sigan todo recto.
How do you pronounce it?
/siɡe todo ɾeɡto/
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often confuse derecho (straight) with derecha (right). Remember that derecha refers to the direction, while derecho refers to the path.
Did you know?
- The word derecho is a linguistic minefield because it can mean 'straight ahead', 'law' (as in 'derecho' studies), or even 'right' in the sense of a legal entitlement.
- The word recto is also the Spanish anatomical term for the 'rectum'.
Examples in context
- Oye, solo ve derecho y encontrarás el restaurante a tu izquierda.Hey, just go straight ahead and you'll find the restaurant on your left.
- Sigue todo recto hasta el semáforo.Go straight ahead until the traffic light.
- Si sigue todo recto, llegará pronto.If you go straight ahead, you will arrive soon.
Example conversation
Daniel is asking María for directions to the museum.
- DanielMaría, ¿cómo llego al museo?María, how do I get to the museum?
- MaríaSigue todo recto por esta calle.Go straight ahead down this street.
- Daniel¿Tengo que girar en la esquina?Do I have to turn at the corner?
- MaríaNo, Daniel, sigue todo recto.No, Daniel, go straight ahead.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries recto, todo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
