Understanding direct and indirect pronouns in Italian can be a bit confusing at first. But don’t worry! Once you learn how to use them, they become really useful.

Direct Pronouns:

• What They Do: Direct pronouns replace the direct object in a sentence. The direct object is the thing that receives the action right away.
• Forms: Here are the direct pronouns you need to know: mi, ti, lo, la, ci, vi, li, le.
• Example: If you say Vedo Maria (I see Maria), you can use a direct pronoun and say La vedo (I see her).

Indirect Pronouns:

• What They Do: Indirect pronouns replace the indirect object in a sentence. The indirect object is the person or thing that receives the action but not directly.
• Forms: These are the indirect pronouns to remember: mi, ti, gli, le, ci, vi, gli.
• Example: If you say Dico la verità a Marco (I tell the truth to Marco), you can use an indirect pronoun and say Gli dico la verità (I tell him the truth).

To decide whether to use a direct or indirect pronoun, think about who is receiving the action. Is it happening directly to something, or is it going to someone else? That will help you pick the right pronoun!