How To Say "Next To" In Spanish

When learning a new language, understanding how to express spatial relationships is crucial for effective communication. In this article, we will delve into the Spanish equivalent of the phrase "next to" and explore its meaning and usage. Whether you are a beginner or an intermediate learner, this guide will provide you with the necessary tools to express proximity in Spanish.

What is "Next To" in Spanish?

The Spanish equivalent of "next to" is al lado de (IPA: /al ˈla.ðo ðe/), which is widely used across Spanish-speaking regions. The phrase "al lado de" conveys the idea of something being located nearby or adjacent to another object or place. It is an essential phrase to master when describing locations, directions, or relationships between objects in Spanish.

Meaning of "Next To" in Spanish

The phrase "al lado de" in Spanish can be broken down as follows: "Al" is a preposition that translates to "to" or "at" in English. "Lado" means "side" in Spanish.

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Usage and Examples

To describe physical proximity

• El supermercado está al lado de la farmacia. (The supermarket is next to the pharmacy.)
• Mi casa está al lado del parque. (My house is next to the park.)

To express a spatial relationship between objects

• El libro está al lado de la computadora. (The book is next to the computer.)
• El coche está al lado de la puerta. (The car is next to the door.)

When giving directions

• Sigue recto y encontrarás el restaurante al lado de la iglesia. (Go straight, and you will find the restaurant next to the church.)
• Cruza la calle y la tienda estará al lado del banco. (Cross the street, and the store will be next to the bank.)

Regional Variations

• In some Latin American countries, such as Mexico and parts of Central America, an alternative phrase for "next to" is junto a (IPA: /jún.to a/). However, "al lado de" is still widely understood and used throughout the Spanish-speaking world.

How to Say "Next To" in Spanish: Sample Sentences

Here are five sample sentences you can use to say "next to" in Spanish:

• El museo está al lado del teatro.

(The museum is next to the theater.)

• Vivo al lado de mi abuela.

(I live next to my grandmother.)

• La tienda está al lado de la panadería.

(The store is next to the bakery.)

• El parque infantil está al lado del colegio.

(The playground is next to the school.)

• La piscina está al lado de la playa.

(The swimming pool is next to the beach.)

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Conclusion