gira a la derecha
/xiɾa a la deɾet͡ʃa/from spelling rules
In Spanish, 'take a right' is translated as gira a la derecha.
The phrase is used to instruct someone to turn toward the right side while traveling.
What does it mean word for word?
The part a la derecha literally means 'to the right', where derecha functions as the noun for 'right side'.
Which one should you use?
You can also use dobla a la derecha as a common synonym for making a turn.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form gira a la derecha uses the informal imperative (tú), which is common when giving directions to a friend or peer. If you are addressing a group of people, use giren a la derecha.
How do you pronounce it?
/xiɾa a la deɾetʃa/
Did you know?
- The word derecha shares its root with derecho, meaning 'law' or 'right' in a legal sense. This links the physical direction of the right side with the concept of justice and correctness.
- While 'gira a la derecha' is a standard command, using the word 'derecha' alone can sometimes be confusing because 'derecho' (the masculine form) means 'straight ahead' instead of 'right'.
- In some Spanish-speaking countries, doblar is used for turning, but in other contexts it can mean 'to fold' or 'to double'. This can lead to confusion for learners who think they are being told to fold something rather than turn a corner.
Examples in context
- Perdón, ¿dónde está la plaza principal? Tome un giro a la derecha después del semáforo.Excuse me, where is the main square? Take a right turn after the traffic light.
- ¿Cómo llego a la estación de tren? Por favor, gire a la derecha en la próxima calle y continúe recto.How do I get to the train station? Please turn right at the next street and continue straight.
- Debes llegar a la avenida principal. Gira a la derecha en el cruce y sigue dos cuadras.You need to reach the main avenue. Turn right at the intersection and go straight for two blocks.
- Cuando llegues al semáforo, gira a la derecha.When you reach the traffic light, take a right.
- Gira a la derecha en la próxima esquina.Take a right at the next corner.
- Para ir al banco, gira a la derecha.To go to the bank, take a right.
Example conversation
Lucía is giving Mateo driving directions to a new cafe.
- LucíaMateo, gira a la derecha en la calle principal.Mateo, take a right on the main street.
- Mateo¿Después de pasar el supermercado?After passing the supermarket?
- LucíaSí, justo ahí.Yes, right there.
- MateoEntendido, muchas gracias.Understood, thank you very much.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries a, derecha, gira, la, CC BY-SA 4.0.
