The words “atrás” and “detrás” are both Spanish terms that refer to position or location, but they are used in different contexts.
“Atrás” typically means “back” or “behind” in a more general sense. It can refer to a direction as well as to a position relative to something else. For example, you might say, “Voy hacia atrás” which means “I am going backwards.” This usage emphasizes the movement towards the back.
On the other hand, “detrás” specifically means “behind” and usually implies a stationary position relative to something else. For example, in the phrase “El perro está detrás de la casa,” it means “The dog is behind the house.” Here, it indicates that the dog is in a fixed position located at the back of the house.
In summary, use “atrás” when talking about moving backwards or towards the back, and use “detrás” when indicating something is located behind something else.