Where to place the pronouns with conjugated verbs in Spanish
When there are direct object, indirect object and reflexive pronouns in a sentence with a conjugated verb, the position of the pronouns will always be in front of the verb structure.
Have a look and listen to the following examples:
Notice how the pronouns are always placed in front and not after the verb, unlike in English, for example:
Los compré en Madrid NOT Compré los en Madrid
I bought them in Madrid.
Where to place pronouns with negative commands
With negative imperatives, the pronoun is also placed in front of the verb, after "no". For example:
When there is more than one pronoun
Remember that in sentences with more than one pronoun there is a specific order you must follow:
- First the indirect object pronoun, then the direct object pronoun.
- First a reflexive pronoun, then an indirect object pronoun
This order must be respected in sentences with a conjugated verb.
[se =indirect object] [lo =direct object]
[me =indirect object] [lo =direct object]
Hemos recibido una carta. Antonio nos la ha enviado desde Perú.We received a letter. Antonio sent it to us from Peru.
[nos =indirect object] [la =direct object]
[se = reflexive pronoun] [me = indirect object]
To learn about how pronouns are positioned with conjugated verbs that contain a gerund, infinitive or a command see also Position of Spanish direct and indirect object pronouns with infinitive/present participle and affirmative commands.
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