Using 'Le lo'

Incorrect Formal Command

This single word is actually three pieces fused together: 'di' (the informal command to 'tell'), 'se' (the word meaning 'to him/her/them'), and 'lo' (the word meaning 'it').

Built from Three Parts

When you attach two small words (pronouns) to an affirmative command, the 'to whom' word ('se' in this case) always comes before the 'what' word ('lo').

Pronoun Order in Commands

The pronoun 'se' here is a replacement for 'le' or 'les' (meaning 'to him/her/them/you formal'). Spanish doesn't allow 'le lo' or 'les lo', so it changes to 'se lo' for smooth sound.

The Special 'Se' Rule

When you attach two or more pronouns to a command, you must add an accent mark to the original stressed syllable ('di') to make sure the word keeps its proper pronunciation (DÍselo, not diSElo).

Why the Accent?

Because 'lo' means 'it,' you must know what 'it' refers to from the previous conversation (e.g., 'the secret,' 'the message,' 'the truth').

Implied Context

A very common affirmative command used to tell someone to relay information to a third party.

Learn the Spanish compound command 'díselo' ('Tell it to him/her/them'). Understand the rules for attaching the pronouns 'se' and 'lo' and why the accent mark is essential.

díselo

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

Practice Conjugations