Justo al lado vs. justo al ladito

Question

If I understand right, justo al lado means "right next to." Is there any difference in meaning if you say justo al ladito instead? If so is it a subtle difference or a big difference? Instances where you would use one over the other, or is it just personal preference like tra and fra in Italian?

Answer 1

¡Hola Ladrona Pequeña! Welcome to the Forum!

I don't know Italian so I won't be able to answer that part of your question. In general, adding 'ito' or 'ita' to a word sort of softens it, makes it more personal or even affectionate. In this case, if it was part of a request like "Put it right on the side" then adding 'ito' could be an informal way to make the request sound more friendly.

Using 'ito/ita' makes a subtle difference that you will undoubtedly learn through exposure and experience. (I'm still getting the knack of it myself. ) Of course the exact reason someone would use 'ladito' rather than 'lado' would also depend on the circumstance and context.

I hope that helps, and we look forward to seeing you around on SpanishDict!

Thanks, both of these answers are a big help! - Ladrona_Pequeña, Jan 24, 2010

Answer 2

As per Chaparrito: "ito" means little or cute. So there is "just to the side"(justo al lado) and "just a little to the side"(justo al ladito).

"Little..." Thanks! I forgot about that aspect. :-) - chaparrito, Jan 2, 2010