Spanish typically follows a Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) order, but variations are common for questions, commands, and emphasis.
Standard Order
The usual order is Subject – Verb – Object.
| Spanish Example |
|---|
| Ella come manzanas. |
| English Example |
Questions
For yes/no questions, verb comes first.
For what, where, how… questions, the question word starts the sentence.
| Spanish Example |
|---|
| ¿Comes tú carne? |
| English Example |
Commands
In commands, the verb is usually first.
| Spanish Example |
|---|
| ¡Habla! |
| English Example |
Emphasis and Style
Spanish allows flexibility to emphasize different parts by changing word order.
| Spanish Example |
|---|
| Manzanas come ella. |
| English Example |
| Note |
| Emphasizes “apples” |
Adjectives
Adjectives usually follow the noun.
Some adjectives come before for stylistic or meaning reasons.
| Spanish Example |
|---|
| Casa blanca |
| English Example |
Summary
- Standard order: Subject – Verb – Object
- Yes/no questions: Verb – Subject
- WH-questions: Question word – Verb – …
- Commands: Verb – …
- Adjectives usually follow nouns
- Word order can change for emphasis
Start Now
- Access 2.5x the number of exercises.
- Track your progress, take courses.
- Unlock chat explanations.
Last updated: Thu Jul 17, 2025