Italian Phrase
Vai dritto per due isolati.
Meaning
This phrase is a direct instruction used to tell someone to continue moving forward without turning, specifically for a distance of two city blocks. It's a fundamental phrase for giving or understanding directions in Italian.
When to use
You would use this phrase when giving directions to a pedestrian or a driver. It's suitable for situations where you need to guide someone through a city or town, indicating a straight path before a turn or destination.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Vaidrittoperdueisolati
Vai (from Andare)
'Vai' is the informal singular imperative form of the verb 'andare' (to go). It's used to give a direct command to one person you know well or a younger person.
Dritto
'Dritto' means 'straight.' It functions as an adverb here, modifying the verb 'vai,' indicating the manner of going.
Per
The preposition 'per' is used to indicate duration or extent, in this case, the distance 'for two blocks.' It's crucial for specifying how far to go.
Isolati
'Isolati' is the plural of 'isolato,' which means 'city block.' It's the standard term used in Italian for a block in urban planning, unlike 'blocco' which can have other meanings.
🗨In Conversation
Scusi, come arrivo alla stazione?
Excuse me, how do I get to the station?
Vai dritto per due isolati, poi gira a destra.
Go straight for two blocks, then turn right.
✕Common Mistakes
Tu vai dritto per due isolati.
The imperative 'Vai' already implies 'you' (informal singular), so adding 'Tu' makes it redundant or overly emphatic in a simple direction.
Vai dritto a due isolati.
'Per' is used to indicate duration or extent of distance, while 'a' is typically for destination or 'at'.
Vai dritto per due blocchi.
While 'blocco' can mean block, 'isolato' is the standard and more common term for a city block in the context of directions.
↔Alternatives
Continua dritto.
Continue straight.
Prosegui dritto.
Proceed straight.
Vai sempre dritto.
Always go straight.
Fai due isolati dritto.
Do two blocks straight.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, people are generally very helpful with directions, but they might use landmarks more often than street names, especially in older towns. It's common to use hand gestures along with verbal instructions. Don't be surprised if someone gives you very detailed, almost narrative, directions!