What does the "le" or "la" mean at the end of a verb?

Question

I was wondering why sometimes you see "le" or "la" at the end of a verb. For example, why is it "Quién podrá abrirle la puerta"? Another example is "Nosotros no pudimos ir a buscarla. I understand the reflexive verbs and why you say "me levanto" and "se acuesta", but is there a difference between putting it at the end from putting it at the front?

Answer 1

Can you tell him that I will be late?

¿Puedes decirle que voy a llegar tarde?

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¿Quién podrá abrirle la puerta?

Who will be able to open the door to her?

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Nosotros no pudimos ir a buscarla.

We couldn't go to look for her.

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So as you see it can be either direct object or indirect object of the sentence.

Thanks a lot for the help! I understand it now. - dangeroushippo41, Apr 10, 2011

Would it be more appropriate to say "Who will be able to open the door FOR her?" - Felixlynx, Apr 10, 2011

Answer 2

Object and reflexive pronouns can be attached to verb infinitives, the gerundio, or commands. For infinitives and the gerundio the placement is optional, for the commands the placement is regulated.

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