How to use indirect object pronouns in French

Indirect object pronouns in French can be tricky for English speakers, but they're essential for fluent communication. Let's explore how to use them correctly.

What are indirect object pronouns?

Indirect object pronouns replace nouns that are the indirect recipients of an action. In French, the main indirect object pronouns are:

• me (to/for me)
• te (to/for you, informal)
• lui (to/for him/her/it)
• nous (to/for us)
• vous (to/for you, formal or plural)
• leur (to/for them)

When to use indirect object pronouns

Use these pronouns when the verb is followed by "à" and refers to a person or animate object. Common verbs include:

• parler à (to speak to)
• téléphoner à (to call)
• donner à (to give to)
• envoyer à (to send to)

Examples in action

Here are some examples to illustrate their use:

1. Je parle à Marie. → Je lui parle. (I speak to her.)
2. Nous téléphonons à nos parents. → Nous leur téléphonons. (We call them.)
3. Tu donnes le livre à Pierre. → Tu lui donnes le livre. (You give him the book.)

Position in the sentence

Indirect object pronouns usually come before the verb:

• Je vais lui envoyer un email. (I'm going to send him/her an email.)
• Nous leur avons parlé hier. (We spoke to them yesterday.)

In imperative (command) forms, they come after the verb:

• Parlez-lui! (Speak to him/her!)
• Donnez-leur le message. (Give them the message.)

Remember, mastering indirect object pronouns takes practice. Try incorporating them into your daily French conversations to become more comfortable with their usage.