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"Ley" is a noun which is often translated as "law", and "derecho" is an adjective which is often translated as "right". Learn more about the difference between "ley" and "derecho" below.
ley(
ley
)A feminine noun is almost always used with feminine articles and adjectives (e.g. la mujer bonita, la luna llena).
1. (rule)
a. law
La nueva ley de atención médica ha resultado ser polémica.The new healthcare law has turned out to be controversial.
2. (system of rules)
a. law (uncountable)
Todos deberíamos ser iguales ante la ley.We should all be equal in the eyes of the law.
3. (scientific principle)
a. law
¿Me puedes explicar la ley de la conservación de la energía?Can you explain the the law of conservation of energy to me?
derecho(
deh
-
reh
-
choh
)An adjective is a word that describes a noun (e.g. the big dog).
1. (direction)
b. right-hand
Tu oficina está a la mano derecha al entrar.Your office is on the right-hand side as you go in.
2. (not curved or crooked)
3. (honorable)
An adverb is a word that describes a verb, an adjective, or other adverbs (e.g. to run quickly, very tired).
4. (in a straight line)
a. straight ahead
Sigue derecho por esta calle y llegarás en seguida.Go straight ahead down this street and you'll be there in no time.
5. (not bent over)
a. upright
Camina derecho, con los hombros hacia atrás y la cabeza en alto.Walk upright with your shoulders back and your head held high.
6. (directly)
A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g. el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
7. (legal)
8. (entitlement)
9. (exterior side)
a. right side (clothing)
No planches el pantalón por el derecho o le darás brillo.Don't iron the pants on the right side or they'll get shiny.
b. outside
El derecho de este suéter está lleno de pelusas.The outside of this sweater is covered in lint.
derechos
A plural noun indicates that there is more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
10. (charge)
a. duties
Tuvieron que pagar los derechos de aduana para importar la mercancía.They had to pay the customs duties to import the goods.
b. fees
¿Cuánto vienen siendo los derechos de admisión a esta escuela?How much are the admission fees at this school?
c. dues
Denunciaron a la empresa por no pagar los derechos portuarios.They sued the company for not paying the harbor dues.
11. (property)
a. rights
Tenemos los derechos exclusivos para su autobiografía.We have the exclusive rights to her autobiography.
