Using indirect object pronouns with dar

Question

I have been told that it is not redundant, and is in fact necessary, to use the indirect object pronoun even if you specifically mention the recipient. For example, Le di el regalo a Jose. Is this just a Central American thing?

Inma Sánchez · Answer

Hola Allison
We do need both pronouns in the sentence, indeed, but only when we start the sentence with the pronoun with "a". If we start with "le", it is optional. Take your sentence for example:
Le di el regalo a José. (correct)
Di el regalo a José. (correct)
A José le di el regalo. (correct)
A José di el regalo. (incorrect)
Even in the cases where it is correct to use just one pronoun, we tend to use both.
We have a lesson on "repetition of indirect object pronouns" coming up soon.
I hope this explanation helps.
Saludos
Inma

allison herr · Answer

Gracias!