Meaning
To indicate the direction of 'right'.
Cultural Background
Pointing with an open hand is considered polite. Never point with a single finger. Pointing with one finger is common and generally not considered rude, unlike in Japan. The right hand is considered 'clean' and is used for eating and greeting, while the left is often reserved for hygiene. Similar to Japan, pointing with a finger can be seen as aggressive. Using the thumb or an open hand is preferred.
Use your hand
Always gesture with an open hand when saying '{右|みぎ}です'.
Don't guess
If you aren't sure, say '{右|みぎ}だと思います' instead of just '{右|みぎ}です'.
Meaning
To indicate the direction of 'right'.
Use your hand
Always gesture with an open hand when saying '{右|みぎ}です'.
Don't guess
If you aren't sure, say '{右|みぎ}だと思います' instead of just '{右|みぎ}です'.
Be precise
If it's far, add 'あちらの' (that one over there) before '{右|みぎ}です'.
Politeness
Adding 'の方' (no hou) makes you sound much more like a native speaker.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank to say 'The bank is on the right.'
銀行は_____です。
The phrase for 'right' is {右|みぎ}.
Which is the most polite way to say 'It's on the right'?
Choose the best option.
'です' is the standard polite form.
Complete the dialogue.
A: トイレはどこですか? B: _____
You need the copula 'です' to complete the sentence.
Match the situation to the correct phrase.
You are giving directions to a stranger.
Polite language is required for strangers.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises銀行は_____です。
The phrase for 'right' is {右|みぎ}.
Choose the best option.
'です' is the standard polite form.
A: トイレはどこですか? B: _____
You need the copula 'です' to complete the sentence.
You are giving directions to a stranger.
Polite language is required for strangers.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsYes, it is the most standard way to indicate the right side.
Yes, it is very blunt. Always add 'desu'.
Because 'desu' acts as the copula, linking the noun directly.
You can say '{右|みぎ}側です'.
No, 'migi ni' needs a verb like 'aru'.
Say '一番{右|みぎ}です'.
A small nod is sufficient when giving directions.
The meaning is the same, but the intonation might vary.
Yes, it is perfectly acceptable.
The direction 'right' remains the same regardless of the person.
It is 'migi' (two syllables).
Yes, but use an open hand.
Related Phrases
{左|ひだり}です
contrastIt is on the left.
{右|みぎ}の方です
similarIt is towards the right.
{右|みぎ}に曲がります
builds onI will turn right.
{右|みぎ}側
specialized formRight side.