Derecha is a noun and an adjective. As a noun, it specifically refers to the right side or the political right. As an adjective, it describes something that is right, correct, or located on the right.
Phonetic Transcription
/deˈɾe.tʃa/
Translation Options into English
Right (as in direction)
Right (as in correctness)
Right (politically, as in "the right")
Meaning and Usage
Derecha is widely used in Spanish to refer to the direction opposite to the left. In political contexts, it denotes conservative or right-wing ideologies. It can also mean "correct" in some contexts.
The word is commonly used in both oral and written forms, depending on the subject matter. Politically, it might appear more in written contexts, while directional uses are prominent in everyday speech.
Example Sentences
"Gira a la derecha en el semáforo."
"Turn right at the traffic light."
"Ella siempre tiene razón; su respuesta es la derecha."
"She is always right; her answer is the correct one."
"El partido de derecha ganó las elecciones."
"The right-wing party won the elections."
Idiomatic Expressions
Derecha appears in various idiomatic expressions, particularly in political contexts and colloquial language.
Example Idiomatic Expressions
“Estar a la derecha de alguien”
"To be on someone's right side."
This phrase can metaphorically mean to be in favor of someone or to support them.
“No todo lo que brilla es oro, incluso a la derecha.”
"Not everything that shines is gold, even on the right."
This suggests that appearances can be deceptive, regardless of political alignment.
“Cualquiera puede estar a la derecha, pero pocos pueden ser justos.”
"Anyone can be right, but few can be just."
This reflects on the nature of correctness versus moral integrity.
Etymology
The word derecha originates from the Latin directa, which is the feminine form of directus, meaning "straight, right." Over time, it evolved in the Spanish language to cover both directional and political meanings.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms
Derecha (as a noun): lado derecho (right side), manos derechas (right hands)
Derecha (as an adjective): correcto (correct), justo (just)
Antonyms
Izquierda (left)
Incorrecto (incorrect)
Erróneo (erroneous)
Overall, derecha is a versatile word in the Spanish language, rich in meaning and usage across various domains.