esquerda e direita
/isˈkeʁ.dɐ ˈɛ d͡ʒiˈɾej.tɐ/word by word
The phrase 'left and right' in Portuguese is esquerda e direita.
This phrase refers to the two opposite directions relative to a person's sides. In Brazil, when giving directions like 'turn to the left', you might see the phrase 'virar à esquerda' shortened to 'virar à esq.' in writing.
Which one should you use?
When you are indicating a specific direction, such as 'to the left and to the right', you must add the contraction à before each direction, forming à esquerda e à direita.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Brazil, the phrase 'virar à esquerda' (to turn left) can be shortened to 'virar à esq.' in certain contexts.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses feminine singular nouns, which is the standard way to refer to these directions in Portuguese. When indicating a direction, you must add the contraction à before each direction.
How do you pronounce it?
There are 6 syllables. The stressed syllable is the 2nd of 6. The IPA is /isˈkeʁ.dɐ ˈɛ dʒiˈɾej.tɐ/.
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Vire à esquerda na próxima rua.Turn left at the next street.
- A loja fica à direita do banco.The store is on the right of the bank.
- Vira à esquerda ali.Turn left over there.
- A cafeteria tá logo ali, à direita.The café is right there on the right.
- Vire à esquerda na próxima esquina.Turn left at the next corner.
- O supermercado está à direita da igreja.The supermarket is on the right of the church.
Example conversation
Camila is giving Gabriel directions while they are walking.
- CamilaVocê deve olhar para a esquerda e direita.You should look to the left and right.
- GabrielEu já estou olhando, Camila.I am already looking, Camila.
- CamilaA rua está bem na frente.The street is right in front.
- GabrielTudo bem, eu vi agora.Alright, I see it now.
