'Right turn' is a compound verb formed by combining 右 (yòu), meaning 'right' as in direction, and 转 (zhuǎn), meaning 'to turn' or 'to rotate'. Together, they describe the physical action of changing direction 90 degrees to the right — most commonly used when giving or following directions while walking, cycling, or driving. It functions as a verb phrase and typically appears after subject pronouns or nouns and before location complements or time adverbs.

This term is neutral in register and widely understood across all Chinese-speaking regions. You’ll hear it frequently in navigation apps, traffic signs (e.g., 右转箭头), spoken instructions from drivers or tour guides, and public announcements. Unlike some directional phrases, 右转 does not require an object — saying 'you need to 右转' is complete on its own. It’s also distinct from 右边 (yòu biān, 'the right side'), which is a noun referring to position rather than movement.