dirige
“dirige” means “leads” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
leads, governs
Also: commands
📝 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?
directs, conducts
Also: supervises
📝 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.
addresses, aims
Also: sends
📝 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.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: dirige
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'dirige' in the sense of addressing a message?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The verb 'dirigir' comes from the Latin verb *dirigere*, which is formed by combining *dis-* (meaning 'apart' or 'in different directions') and *regere* (meaning 'to guide' or 'to keep straight'). This perfectly describes the idea of guiding things or people in a particular path.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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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.