When is "a" (to) not used in a translation
I do not understand the following translation: We listen to the radio. Nosotros escuchamos la radio. Why is the translation not?: Nosotros escuchamos a la radio. In a sentence like, I am going to the store--Voy a la tienda--the translation does not exclude the "a". What is the grammar rule for using a preposition, like "a" (to)? I thought it might have something to do with the personal "a" in Spanish, but the store example doesn't seem to fit. I'm confused.
2 Answers
I agree with Daniela. To add to her answer: Voy a la tienda has the preposition A because this indicates direction. Verbs such as Mirar imply A (to) so adding it is not necessary, whereas the verb ir , as most verbs, has no implied A.
This has nothing to do with personal A, in fact, when we use mirar with a person, then we do have to add the personal A: Mira a mi hermano como corre tan fuerte.
Some verbs in Spanish include what would be the English "to" or "at" "To look at" is Mirar.
Miro la foto. I'm looking at the picture. Escucho la radio, I'm listening to the radio.
On the other hand, some Spanish verbs will put an "a" where you don't need "to" or "at" in English. Ex. Asisto a la escuela. I attend school. No asisto a los conciertos de Lady Gaga. I don't attend Lady Gaga concerts.
Never try to impose English logic upon Spanish or vice versa. The languages are structured differently in many ways. Only a lot of practice will overcome those areas where there is a difference in structure.
