Bienvenidos! If you find yourself in a Spanish-speaking country and need to navigate the streets, it’s essential to know how to say left, right, and straight. In this guide, we’ll provide you with both formal and informal ways of expressing these directions in Spanish. However, keep in mind that regional variations may exist, but we will focus on the most commonly used terms. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Saying “Left” in Spanish
When it comes to saying “left” in Spanish, you have a few options. Here are some commonly used words and phrases:
Formal:
- Izquierda: This is the most common way to say “left” in Spanish. For example, “Gira a la izquierda” means “Turn left.” It is the standard and universally understood term across Spanish-speaking countries.
Informal:
- A la izquierda: This is a more polite and formal way of expressing “to the left.” It’s commonly used when providing directions to someone you’re not familiar with. For example, “La tienda está a la izquierda” means “The store is to the left.”
TIP: Remember that “izquierda” is a feminine noun, so it should be used with feminine articles and adjectives. For instance, “La calle está a la izquierda” means “The street is to the left.”
Saying “Right” in Spanish
Now let’s move on to saying “right” in Spanish. Here are the commonly used terms:
Formal:
- Derecha: Similar to “izquierda,” “derecha” is the standard way to say “right” in Spanish. For example, “Gira a la derecha” means “Turn right.” This term is widely understood and used throughout Spanish-speaking countries.
Informal:
- A la derecha: Just like with “left,” “a la derecha” is the more polite and formal way of expressing “to the right.” For example, “El restaurante está a la derecha” means “The restaurant is to the right.”
TIP: Similar to “izquierda,” “derecha” is a feminine noun, so be sure to use it with feminine articles and adjectives. For instance, “El edificio está a la derecha” means “The building is to the right.”
Saying “Straight” in Spanish
Lastly, let’s explore how to say “straight” in Spanish, which indicates continuing without turning. Here are the commonly used terms:
Formal:
- Derecho: This term serves as both an adjective and an adverb, meaning “straight” or “straight ahead” respectively. For example, “Sigue derecho” means “Go straight ahead.”
Informal:
- Todo recto: This phrase is commonly used in informal contexts to mean “straight on” or “straight ahead.” For example, “La playa está todo recto” means “The beach is straight ahead.”
TIP: When using “derecho” or “todo recto” to give directions, be sure to include the verb “seguir” (to follow) before indicating the direction. For instance, “Sigue todo recto” means “Keep going straight.”
In Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve learned how to say “left,” “right,” and “straight” in Spanish. Now, whether you’re strolling through the colorful streets of Mexico or exploring the historic roads of Spain, you’ll be able to confidently ask for and follow directions.
Remember, “izquierda” means “left,” “derecha” means “right,” and “derecho” or “todo recto” means “straight.” Practice using these terms in various contexts to solidify your understanding.
Happy exploring, and enjoy your Spanish-language adventures!
