italiano · A2 · grammar · 4 minutes
Direct object pronouns
Replace a known object with lo, la, li, or le before the finite verb.
Understand the choice
Direct pronouns avoid repetition after the noun is identified. Select gender and number from the original object, then place the pronoun before the finite verb or attach it to a dependent infinitive.
Core rule: Lo/la/li/le replace direct objects and normally precede a finite verb; lo/la elide before avere forms in compound tenses.
Notice it in context
Questa giacca mi piace, quindi la compro.
I like this jacket, so I am buying it.
La replaces feminine singular giacca and precedes compro.
Conosci questi libri? Sì, li conosco.
Do you know these books? Yes, I know them.
Li replaces masculine plural libri.
La lettera? Non l’ho ancora letta.
The letter? I have not read it yet.
L’ precedes ho; letta agrees with preceding feminine object pronoun.
What to remember
- Mi, ti, ci, and vi can also be direct objects.
- With a modal: la posso comprare or posso comprarla.
Common trap: Do not place an unstressed pronoun after a normal finite verb: la compro.