Introduction
subject+verb+object
- María lee un libro.María is reading a book.
- Mis padres viven en Lima.My parents live in Lima.
The subject can be left out when the verb ending makes it clear: Leo un libro (I'm reading a book).
Verb Before the Subject
The subject often comes after the verb, especially with verbs of appearing, arriving or happening, and when the subject is new information.
- Llegó el tren.The train arrived.
- Falta sal.There's not enough salt.
- Me gusta esta canción.I like this song.
- ¿Quién lo hizo? Lo hizo mi hermano.Who did it? My brother did.
Object Pronouns
Object pronouns go before the conjugated verb, not after it as in English.
- Te quiero.I love you.
- Lo vi ayer.I saw him yesterday.
- Quiero te.Te quiero.
Adjectives and Adverbs
Adjectives usually follow the noun. Adverbs are more flexible and can move to the start for emphasis.
- Tiene un coche rojo.She has a red car.
- Habla despacio.He speaks slowly.
- Despacio, abrió la puerta.Slowly, he opened the door.
Practice
Which follows the neutral subject-verb-object order?
In neutral order, the object comes ___.
Which sentence is correct and natural?
Esta canción me encanta is ___.
Which is correct? (I love you)
¿El libro? ___ ayer. (I bought it)
Tiene un ___. (red car)
Leo un libro means ___.
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