Use of "a" after some verbs.

Question

Could anyone explain to me please when we use "a" after some verbs?

For example, I have seen the phrase "No conozco Europa" and the phrase "No conozco a su hermano".

Why in the first case we don't use "a" and in the second case we do? Is there a grammar rule about the use of "a" or is there a list of verbs which need to be followed by "a" -and if there is one, any clues where I can find it?

Thank you in advance.

Answer 1

In the case you have given Maria - that is what you call the 'personal a'. Although it can't be translated in English, in Spanish, when the direct object is a person or a pet that you have some feeling for, it is preceded by the preposition "a." It would be incorrect not to use it.

Juan llama a María. John calls María.

The 'personal a' is not used when the direct object is not a person (like in your example with Europe) or if it is a person or a pet for whom you have no personal feeling.

Necesito médico. (I need a doctor.)

Also the 'personal a' is not used with the verb tener.

Tengo dos hermanas. (I have two sisters.)

Hope that helps

Thanks for you answer and for telling me the "name" of the grammar rule, it helps me a lot! - maria_k, Aug 5, 2010

You're welcome :) - Kiwi-Girl, Aug 5, 2010

Great feedback. Still, I'm a little confused. why is it ok to say for example to say 'Él renunció a su ciudadanía'? a citzenship is not a person or a pet although I could see how someone might have some feeling for it. Please can you explain? Thanks - dbermingham, Jun 17, 2014