Word Order

The typical Spanish sentence follows Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) order: the subject comes first, then the verb, then the direct object. This order is clear and neutral.

Adjectives usually come after the noun they describe, which can affect meaning when they are placed before instead. Some adjectives change nuance depending on position.

Adverbs typically follow the verb they modify, though they can move for emphasis. Adverbs that modify the whole sentence often go at the beginning or end.

Questions invert the normal order or add question words; the verb often comes before the subject in questions. Intonation and question marks signal interrogatives.

Object pronouns normally precede a conjugated verb or attach to an infinitive, gerund, or command; they never split a negative command. Placement affects meaning and emphasis.

Moving elements to the front of the sentence adds emphasis or highlights contrast; topicalization can place an object or adverb first. Short sentences and pauses reinforce stress.

Spanish allows double negatives when a negative word precedes the verb and another follows; this is natural and strengthens the negation. Dropping the first negative changes meaning.

Spanish word order is fundamentally SVO but flexible for emphasis, questions, and style. Adjectives, adverbs, and pronouns have typical positions that learners should practice with short sentences.