Question 1

Why does this sentence use the present tense (vas, coges) instead of the imperative commands (ve, coge)?

Accepted Answer

In everyday spoken Spanish, it is very common to use the present indicative to give instructions or directions. It sounds a bit softer and more conversational than using direct imperative commands, though both are perfectly correct and widely used.

Question 2

Why is it todo recto and not toda recta to match la calle?

Accepted Answer

In this phrase, recto functions as an adverb meaning straight, and todo is also an adverb acting as an intensifier meaning entirely or right on. Because they are adverbs describing how you go, they are invariable and do not change gender or number to match any nouns.

Question 3

Why do we say a la derecha instead of en la derecha?

Accepted Answer

When giving directions that imply movement or making a turn, Spanish uses a la derecha (to the right) or a la izquierda (to the left). You typically use en la derecha when describing a purely static location, like pointing out that a painting is hanging on the right side of a wall.

Question 4

I have heard that the verb coger is a bad word. Is it safe to use here?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in Spain, coger is the standard, everyday verb for taking a street, catching a bus, or grabbing an object. However, if you are speaking to someone from Latin America, you should swap it for tomar, as coger is considered highly vulgar slang in many Latin American countries.

Vas todo recto y coges la segunda calle a la derecha.

Breakdown of Vas todo recto y coges la segunda calle a la derecha.

Questions & Answers about Vas todo recto y coges la segunda calle a la derecha.

Learn Vas todo recto y coges la segunda calle a la derecha and more in Spanish