detrás

Detrás is a Spanish adverb and preposition that denotes location at the rear or back of something, and it is also used in a broad range of figurative senses. When used with de, as in detrás de, it specifies the object or place being referred to, for example, behind a house or behind a door. The term can function as an independent adverb without a following noun, as in voy detrás, meaning I’m behind (in line, schedule, or position).

Etymology and form: Detrás originates from a combination of the preposition de and a form related to tras, the sense of “behind.” Over time it developed into a single word in standard Spanish and is written with an accent on the final syllable to indicate the stressed pronunciation: deˈtrás (IPA: [deˈtɾas]).

Usage and grammar: Detrás is invariable with respect to gender and number, and it typically governs a noun or a prepositional phrase when used with de (detrás de X). It can also stand alone as an adverb, especially in spatial contexts or in figures of speech. Common constructions include locations ("detrás de la casa"), time-related or sequential ideas (less common in literal time usage), and metaphorical expressions about concealment or motivation (lo que hay detrás de una decisión).

Common phrases and examples:

- El coche está detrás de la casa.

- Llegué detrás de ustedes en la fila.

- Detrás de esa sonrisa hay miedo.

- Detrás de las cámaras se hacen muchas tomas.

See also: Tras, delante de, detrás de. Detalles de uso pueden vary regionalmente within the Spanish-speaking world.