右

• Pinyin: yòu
• Hanzi breakdown: 右 = 𠂇 (hand) + 口 (mouth) — the right hand, used for eating and speaking

Meaning

Right (direction). Indicates the right-hand side as opposed to left.

A basic directional word indicating the right side. Often used in combination with 边 (side) to form 右边. Can appear independently in more formal or written contexts such as signs, instructions, and commands.

Examples

1. 请往右走。 Please go to the right.
2. 右手拿筷子。 Hold chopsticks with the right hand.
3. 学校在路的右边。 The school is on the right side of the road.

Usage Guide

Context: directions, everyday

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 请向右转。(Please turn right.)
• 银行在右边。(The bank is on the right side.)

Don't Say

• 我的右不舒服。(Incomplete — say 我的右手不舒服 or 我的右边不舒服, specifying what is on the right)

Origin & History

An ancient character originally depicting a right hand. The right hand was traditionally associated with authority and correctness in Chinese culture.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal