1. La “A” Personal en español
Personal A
La “A” Personal en español

2. The Direct Object
The direct object (DO) is the noun or pronoun that receives the action of the verb. Jorge kicks the ball. Lucas calls Gloria. He calls her.
(verb)
(DO)
(verb)
(DO)
(verb)
(DO)

3. Personal “A” in Spanish
But in Spanish, when the direct object is a person, it is preceded by the preposition “A” Lucas calls Gloria. Lucas llama a Gloria. IN ENGLISH, this word has no translation.

4. WARNING
For English speakers, the personal “a” seems to be an “extra” word with no meaning. But in Spanish, the personal “a” IS REQUIRED, and to ignore it is a serious mistake.

5. Personal “A” in Spanish
The personal “a” is also used if the direct object is a domesticated animal or a pet meaning that the speaker has an emotional attachment or personal feelings towards the animal. Gloria walks her dog. Gloria pasea a su perro.

6. Personal “A” in Spanish
The personal “a” is also used when you call a place to speak with someone there.
Inés calls the restaurant to make a reservation.
Inés llama al restaurante para hacer una reservación.
(a + el = al)

7. When NOT TO USE the Personal “A”
When the direct object is not a person or animal for which you have personal feelings.
Yo tomo jugo de naranja.
(I drink orange juice.)
Ellos rescatan los perros para adopción.
(They rescue dogs for adoption.)
After the verb tener, or the verb form hay. (Even if the direct object is a person.)
Eva tiene tres hermanas.
(Eva has three sisters.)
Hay siete niños en el salón.
(There are seven kids in the classroom.)
When the direct object is an indefinite person.
Necesito un plomero.
(I need a plumber.)

8. https://youtu.be/idoQGQgBSUM
Personal “A” Video

9. instagram.com/speakinglatino
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