Forgetting the Accent

Attaching in Finite Tenses

The 'lo' attached to the end of the verb means 'it' (referring to a masculine or general neuter thing) and is the direct recipient of the action 'to have'.

The Meaning of 'Lo'

'Lo' only attaches to the end of the verb when the verb is in its basic (infinitive) form (*tenerlo*), the '-ing' form (gerund: *teniéndolo*), or an affirmative command (e.g., *¡Tenlo!* - Have it!).

Pronoun Attachment Rule

In all other tenses (Present, Past, Future), 'lo' must detach and move *before* the conjugated verb. Example: You don't say *yo tengolo*, you say *yo lo tengo* (I have it).

Pronoun Detachment Rule

'Lo' can refer not just to a physical object but also to an abstract concept or an entire idea you just mentioned. Example: 'Pensar en eso es difícil.' 'Sí, es difícil tenerlo en mente.' (Yes, it’s difficult to keep it in mind.)

Using 'Lo' for Concepts

Extremely common in conversation, used whenever referring to the act of possessing or holding a specific thing.

'Tenerlo' is the infinitive form meaning 'to have it' or 'to hold it.' Learn the rules for attaching the pronoun 'lo' to infinitives, gerunds (teniéndolo), and commands, and when to detach it (lo tengo).

tenerlo

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

Practice Conjugations