Basic Spanish Word Order: SVO Made Simple

If you’re just starting to learn Spanish, one of the best things you can do is master basic sentence structure. A clear understanding of how to build simple sentences will make speaking and writing much easier. It will also help you sound more native. In Spanish, the most common sentence pattern is SVO—that means Subject – Verb – Object. This is great news for native English speakers learning Spanish because it’s actually the same as English!

Why is word order important?

Simply put, grammar is precision and clarity. Using the basic word order helps you say exactly what you mean and to avoid any confusion. Sometimes, word order can change the meaning entirely. For example, if you mix up the subject and the object in the sentence, the meaning is completely different!

• El perro muerde al gato. → The dog bites the cat
• El gato muerde al perro. → The cat bites the dog
  • The words are similar, but the order changes the meaning completely.

Examples of Spanish word order (SVO)

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Here are a few more simple sentences using the SVO structure:

• Tú lees un libro.
  (You read a book.)
• Nosotros practicamos español.
  (We practice Spanish.)
• Ellos tienen un restaurante.
  (They have a restaurant.)

Notice how the subject comes first, the verb follows, and then the object comes last—just like in English.

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Once you’re a little more advanced, you can learn about exceptions to this rule, like adding emphasis or dropping the subject. For now, focus on the basics and you’ll feel more confident in no time.