destra
/ˈdɛs.tra/
The Italian word for 'right' in terms of direction is destra.
destra is an adjective used to describe something that is on the right side, being the opposite of left.
Meaning: of direction, opposite of left (adj)
Which one should you use?
It is important to distinguish between different meanings of 'right' in English. Use destra when referring to the direction (right), but use diritto when you mean a straight line or a legal right or entitlement.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
When using destra as an adverb meaning 'to the right', it is often preceded by the preposition a, as in a destra.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has two syllables and the stress is on the first syllable: /ˈdɛs.tra/.
Did you know?
- The word destra shares a common ancestor with the English word 'dexterous', describing someone who is skillful or clever with their hands.
- In Italian politics, destra refers to right-wing political parties, mirroring the English usage but stemming from the seating arrangements in the French National Assembly.
- The phrase girare a destra can be used figuratively to describe a sudden change in a person's life path or a decision to take a different direction.
Examples in context
- Io sono a destra.I am on the right.This sentence is useful for stating your position using destra.Tatoeba #1949063 by Guybrush88, translation #810174 by BraveSentry
- Gira a destra lì.Turn right there.This sentence is useful for giving a direction using destra.Tatoeba #11444038 by Guybrush88, translation #50853 by CM
- Tom girò a destra.Tom turned right.This sentence is useful for describing a past movement using destra.Tatoeba #5403336 by Guybrush88, translation #2238844 by CK
- Scusa, dovresti girare a destra dopo il semaforo.Excuse me, you should turn right after the traffic light.
- Il bar che cerchi è all'angolo, sulla strada a destra.The bar you're looking for is at the corner, on the right side of the street.
- 218 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lorenzo and Giulia are looking for a restaurant in the city center.
- LorenzoGiulia, sai dove si trova il ristorante?Giulia, do you know where the restaurant is?
- GiuliaSì, devi girare a destra in questa via.Yes, you have to turn right in this street.
- LorenzoÈ proprio a destra della banca?Is it exactly to the right of the bank?
- GiuliaEsatto, Lorenzo, è proprio lì.Exactly, Lorenzo, it is right there.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry destra, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries destra, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
