verb

dirigir

run · to direct · direct · lead · conduct

Guiar o controlar a un grupo de personas o una actividad para lograr un objetivo.

Definition & meaning

The verb dirigir has several primary meanings in Spanish, generally revolving around the concept of guidance or control:

To lead or manage: This is used when someone is in charge of a company, a project, or a department. It implies making decisions and overseeing operations.
To direct or guide: To show someone the way or to guide the movement of something toward a specific place.
To aim or point: This refers to pointing an object, a gaze, or a remark toward a specific target or person.
To address: To send a letter, a speech, or a message to a specific recipient.
To conduct: In a musical context, it refers to a conductor leading an orchestra, choir, or band.

Grammar & Word origin

Dirigir is a regular verb of the third conjugation (ending in -ir). However, it undergoes a spelling change in the first person singular of the present indicative (yo dirijo) and in all forms of the present subjunctive. The "g" changes to "j" before "o" or "a" to maintain the soft aspirated sound.

The word originates from the Latin verb dirigere, which is formed by the prefix di- (meaning separation or in different directions) and the verb regere (to rule, to lead, or to keep straight). This reflects the core idea of setting something on a straight path or ruling over its course.