Learning how to say “them” in Spanish is an essential step towards becoming fluent in the language. Knowing the different forms and contexts where this word is used is important to effectively communicate in both formal and informal settings. In this guide, we will explore various ways to express “them” in Spanish, including formal and informal usage. We will also provide regional variations where necessary to give you a well-rounded understanding. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Them” in Spanish
1. Ellos/Ellas – This is the most common way to say “them” when referring to a group of people. “Ellos” is used for a group of males or a mixed-gender group, while “ellas” is used for a group of females. Examples:
Ellos son mis amigos. (They are my friends.)
Ellas trabajan en la oficina. (They work in the office.)
2. Les – This form is used as an indirect object pronoun when “them” refers to the recipient of an action or the target of a verb. Examples:
Les di el libro. (I gave them the book.)
Les canté una canción. (I sang them a song.)
Informal Ways to Say “Them” in Spanish
1. Ellos/Ellas – Just like in formal usage, “ellos” and “ellas” can also be used informally to refer to a group of people. Examples:
Ellos son mis amigos. (They are my friends.)
Ellas son muy simpáticas. (They are very nice.)
2. Los/Las – This is a more informal and commonly used way to say “them” when referring to a group of people. Examples:
Los vi en el parque. (I saw them in the park.)
Las invité a la fiesta. (I invited them to the party.)
Regional Variations
While the formal and informal ways mentioned above are widely used across Spanish-speaking regions, there are also slight regional variations. Here are a few examples:
- Vosotros/Vosotras – This form is used mainly in Spain to address a group of people informally. Examples:
Vosotros sois mis primos. (You all are my cousins.)
Vosotras también podéis venir. (You all can come too.)
- Ustedes – In most Latin American countries, “ustedes” is widely used both formally and informally when referring to a group of people. Examples:
Ustedes son muy amables. (You all are very kind.)
Ustedes me caen bien. (I like you all.)
Tips and Examples
To better grasp the usage of “them” in Spanish, keep these tips and examples in mind:
- When “them” replaces a singular noun, the word “lo/la” can be used. Examples:
Vi a Carlos y le pregunté cómo estaba. (I saw Carlos and asked him how he was.)
Vi a María y la invité a cenar. (I saw María and invited her to dinner.)
- When “them” refers to an inanimate object, the word “los/las” is used instead. Examples:
Cogí los libros y los puse en la estantería. (I picked up the books and put them on the shelf.)
Vi las películas y las recomendaré a mis amigos. (I watched the movies and will recommend them to my friends.)
Remember to practice using these forms in different contexts to build your fluency and familiarity with the Spanish language. Keep in mind that language is constantly evolving, and regional variations may exist. However, the forms we have covered in this guide will serve as a strong foundation for your Spanish communication skills.
¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
