dirigen
“dirigen” means “they lead” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
they lead, they run
Also: you all lead
📝 In Action
Ellos dirigen una empresa de tecnología muy exitosa.
A2They run a very successful technology company.
Ustedes dirigen el proyecto con mucha paciencia.
B1You all lead the project with a lot of patience.
they direct
Also: they conduct
📝 In Action
Esas directoras dirigen películas de acción.
B1Those directors direct action movies.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
present
imperfect
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: dirigen
Question 1 of 2
How do you say 'They run the hospital'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'dirigere', which means 'to set straight' or 'to guide'. It is a combination of 'dis-' (apart) and 'regere' (to rule or guide).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can 'dirigen' mean 'you all'?
Yes! In Spain, you use 'dirigís' for 'you all' (informal), but in Latin America, 'dirigen' is used for 'you all' in every situation.
Is 'dirigen' used for physical directions?
Yes, but usually we use 'dirigirse' (to head towards). For example: 'Ellos se dirigen al norte' (They are heading north).

