Spanish Phrase
Sigue las señales para recoger tu equipaje.
Meaning
This phrase is a common instruction, typically found in airports or train stations. It means to observe and obey the directional indicators (signs) in order to retrieve one's bags or suitcases. It's a direct and practical instruction for travelers.
When to use
You'll most often hear or see this phrase in travel hubs like airports, bus terminals, or train stations, guiding passengers to the baggage claim area. It's a standard instruction given to arriving travelers who need to find their way to baggage collection.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Siguelas señalespararecogertu equipaje
Sigue (Seguir)
This is the informal 'tú' command form of the verb 'seguir' (to follow). It's an irregular verb, so it doesn't follow the standard -er verb conjugation pattern for commands.
las señales
"Señales" (signs) is a feminine plural noun. "Las" is the definite article matching its gender and number, meaning 'the'.
para
This preposition means "in order to" or "for the purpose of." It introduces the purpose of following the signs, indicating why you should do something.
recoger
This is an infinitive verb meaning "to pick up" or "to collect." It follows "para" to express the action's purpose, indicating what you are meant to do.
tu equipaje
"Equipaje" (luggage) is a masculine singular noun. "Tu" is the informal possessive adjective meaning "your." Note that "equipaje" is singular even if it refers to multiple bags.
🗨In Conversation
¿Disculpe, dónde recojo mi maleta?
Excuse me, where do I collect my suitcase?
Sigue las señales para recoger tu equipaje.
Follow the signs to collect your luggage.
✕Common Mistakes
Sigue los signos para coger tu equipaje.
"Signos" refers to symbols or omens, not directional signs. "Señales" is correct for road or directional signs.
Sigue las señales para tomar tu equipaje.
While "tomar" can mean "to take," "recoger" specifically means "to pick up" or "to collect" in the context of luggage.
Sigue las señales para recoger su equipaje.
"Tu" (informal 'you') matches the informal command "Sigue." "Su" would be for a formal 'you' (usted) or 'his/her/their'.
↔Alternatives
Dirígete a la zona de recogida de equipaje.
Head to the baggage claim area.
Busca las indicaciones para el equipaje.
Look for the indications for luggage.
Vaya a la cinta de equipajes.
Go to the baggage carousel.
Cultural Tip
In Spanish-speaking countries, instructions like these are usually direct and to the point. While "usted" (formal 'you') might be used in official announcements, "tú" (informal 'you') is common on signs, especially when addressing a general public in a non-formal context like an airport. Always pay attention to signs, as they are crucial for navigation in unfamiliar places.