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The personal "a"
A2The personal "a" goes before a specific person (or pet) used as a direct object.
Overview
The personal "a" goes before a specific person (or pet) used as a direct object.
At a glance
- 1."a" before specific people
- 2.No "a" before things
- 3."a" with beloved pets
- 4.No "a" after "tener"
- 5.No "a" with indefinite people
Rules
51"a" before specific people
Before a specific person as direct object, always use the personal "a".
- Veo a María. — I see María.
- Conozco a tu hermano. — I know your brother.
- Llamé al profesor. — I called the teacher.a + el = al
2No "a" before things
Before things, places, or objects there is no personal "a".
- Veo la casa. — I see the house.
- Esperamos el autobús. — We're waiting for the bus.
3"a" with beloved pets
A specific, familiar pet also takes the personal "a".
- Busco a mi perro. — I'm looking for my dog.
- Quiero mucho a mi gato. — I love my cat a lot.
4No "a" after "tener"
After "tener" the personal "a" is usually dropped, even with people.
- Tengo dos hermanos. — I have two brothers.
- Tenemos muchos amigos. — We have many friends.
5No "a" with indefinite people
With an any-one, non-specific person the personal "a" is omitted.
- Necesito un médico. — I need a doctor.any doctor
- Busco un profesor de español. — I'm looking for a Spanish teacher.
Test
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