Double Object Pronouns

In Spanish, it is common to use direct and indirect object pronouns together. When this happens, you need to consider some changes.

Quick Review of Direct and Indirect Object Pronouns

Rule 1. The function of direct object pronouns is to avoid the repetition of an object already mentioned. They are usually placed before conjugated verbs unless the pronoun is part of the verbal periphrasis estar + gerundio (present progressive) or a sentence with an infinitive verb form.

Rule 2. The function of an indirect object pronoun is to avoid the repetition of to or for whom the action is performed. These pronouns are also placed before the conjugated verb.

Double Object Pronouns - Use

Rule 3. Using two pronouns in a sentence has the same purpose as using them individually, which is to avoid repeating what has already been mentioned.

Without pronouns:

With pronouns:

Double Object Pronouns - Form

Rule 4. When both pronouns are used, the indirect object pronoun is placed before the direct object pronoun, and both come before the conjugated verb.

Le to Se Change

One of the most important aspects to consider when using both types together is the indirect object pronouns for the third person singular and plural (le, les).

Rule 5. When le or les pronouns are used together with the direct object pronouns lo, la, los, and las, they should be changed to se to avoid a repetitive sound.

Incorrect:

Correct:

Double Object Pronouns with the Present Progressive

Rule 6. When using double object pronouns in the present progressive (the verbal periphrasis estar + gerund), the pronoun can be attached to the end of the present participle form. In this case, the order of the pronouns remains the same. Remember that an accent mark must be added.

Rule 7. The same can be done with a sentence that has two verbs, with the second one in the infinitive form.

How to Express Negation

Rule 8. Place no or another negative word before the pronouns.