Derecho vs. Derecho

Question

How can you tell the difference between right and straight? I think it would get confusing if you were getting directions.

Cass, please complete your profile so that we can know how best to help you :) We need to know your level of ability in both Spanish and English. - FELIZ77, May 19, 2014

Answer 1

Derecha = right

Derechos = rights

Derecho = straight

??

oh so the difference is the a and the o. thanks! - CassKamm, May 19, 2014

well, we would say the masculine and the feminine endings lol :) - FELIZ77, May 19, 2014

when talking about the difference between right and straight , rights as in legal rights (los) derechos :) - FELIZ77, May 19, 2014

Ejerzo mi derecho de votar :-) - 007c5fc1, May 19, 2014

Correct Marguerite, my right to vote. - chileno, May 19, 2014

Answer 2

Hello CassKamm,

Welcome to the SpanishDict forum

There are distinct differences in the way that these Spanish words are used:

1.derecha por ejemplo: Toma la primera calle a la derecha. = Take the first turning (literally: street) on the right

2.derecho por ejemplo: ¡Vaya todo recto! = Go straight ahead!

3.derechos por ejemplo: Tienes que hacer valer tus derechos = You have to stand up for your rights.

The word derechos can also be used colloquially: ¡No hay derechos! = it's not fair, it's just not on!

Last two examples courtesy of Oxford Spanish Dictionary (4th edn)

I hope this helps

Answer 3

We also use Derecho as Law studies.

I study Law.

Estudio Derecho.

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