dirige
/dee-REE-heh/
leads
The explorer leads the expedition. (dirige)
dirige(verb)
leads
?as in guiding a group or organization
,governs
?as in running a country or large entity
commands
?military or authoritative context
📝 In Action
El director dirige la empresa desde hace diez años.
A2The director has led the company for ten years.
¿Quién dirige este equipo tan exitoso?
B1Who leads this successful team?
💡 Grammar Points
Verb-Ending Consistency
The 'él/ella/usted' present tense forms of all -IR verbs usually end in '-e', just like 'dirige'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing 'dirige' and 'dirija'
Mistake: "Using 'dirija' (the subjunctive form) in a simple descriptive sentence: 'Ella dirija el proyecto.'"
Correction: 'Ella dirige el proyecto.' Use 'dirige' for facts; 'dirija' is only for wishes, commands, or uncertainty.
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Command
Remember that 'dirija' is the formal way to command one person ('Usted, dirija la reunión'), while 'dirige' is simply stating a fact about someone else.
The musician directs the orchestra. (dirige)
dirige(verb)
directs
?a film, play, or orchestra
,conducts
?an orchestra
supervises
?a process or activity
📝 In Action
El famoso cineasta siempre dirige sus propias películas.
B1The famous filmmaker always directs his own movies.
El policía dirige el tráfico con un silbato.
B2The police officer directs traffic with a whistle.
💡 Grammar Points
Action vs. Position
When talking about directing physical movement (like traffic), 'dirige' is used to describe the ongoing action, not the person's job title.
⭐ Usage Tips
Use with Instruments
In music, 'dirige' is the standard verb for 'conducts' (conducting an orchestra).
The politician addresses the crowd. (dirige)
dirige(verb)
addresses
?a letter or speech to someone
,aims
?a comment or request
sends
?a message (less common)
📝 In Action
Ella siempre dirige sus cartas al departamento correcto.
B2She always addresses her letters to the correct department.
El orador dirige su mensaje a los jóvenes.
C1The speaker aims his message at young people.
💡 Grammar Points
The Reflexive Form
The verb 'dirigirse' (to head toward, to address oneself) is much more common for movement: 'Él se dirige al teatro' (He is heading to the theater).
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Writing
Use this meaning when discussing the target audience or recipient of formal communication (letters, speeches, public announcements).
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: dirige
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'dirige' in the sense of addressing a message?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'dirige' and 'maneja'?
'Dirige' means to lead, guide, or command a group, project, or performance. 'Maneja' usually means to operate something physical (like driving a car) or to handle/manage smaller tasks or situations. 'Dirige' implies a higher level of authority or strategic control.
How do I say 'He is heading towards the exit'?
For physical movement, Spanish almost always uses the reflexive form 'dirigirse a': 'Él se dirige a la salida.' Using 'dirige' alone in this context would sound unnatural.