dirigirse
Lemma Details
Translation: to address oneself; to head towards; to go to; to turn to; to direct oneself
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: Dirigirse is a reflexive form of the verb 'dirigir', which comes from Latin 'dirigere', meaning 'to direct' or 'to guide'. The Latin term is composed of 'di-' (a variant of 'dis-', meaning 'apart') and 'regere' (to rule, to guide). This same Latin root gives us English words like 'direct', 'director', and 'direction'. The reflexive form in Spanish adds the meaning of directing oneself toward something or someone.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Me dirijo al supermercado para comprar comida.
I'm heading to the supermarket to buy food.
¿A quién debo dirigirme para obtener más información?
Who should I address to get more information?
El presidente se dirigió a la nación anoche.
The president addressed the nation last night.
Nos dirigimos hacia el norte.
We're heading north.
Mnemonics
- Think of a 'director' directing themselves to a specific location.
- Remember that 'dirigirse' contains 'dir' like in 'direction' - you're giving yourself a direction to follow.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, 'dirigirse' is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. In formal settings, it's often used when addressing officials or in written correspondence. The way one 'se dirige' (addresses oneself) to others can indicate social status and relationship dynamics.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Dirigir' is the non-reflexive form meaning 'to direct/lead something or someone else', while 'dirigirse' (reflexive) means 'to direct oneself' or 'to head towards'.
Confused word:
Él dirige la orquesta.
He directs the orchestra.
Notes: The reflexive pronoun changes according to the subject (me, te, se, nos, os, se).
Mnemonic: If there's 'se' in the verb, you're directing yourself; without 'se', you're directing something else.
Explanation: 'Direccionar' is more technical, often used in computing contexts meaning 'to route' or 'to address', while 'dirigirse' is broader and refers to physical movement or verbal addressing.
This word:
Me dirijo al departamento de recursos humanos.
I'm heading to the human resources department.
Confused word:
Necesito direccionar este correo electrónico correctamente.
I need to address this email correctly.
Notes: 'Direccionar' is less common in everyday speech and more specific to technical contexts.
Mnemonic: 'Direccionar' sounds more technical like 'directional' - think of technical routing.