Commands with object pronouns (fais-le)

Normally, direct object pronouns like le (him/it) or la (her/it) go before the verb. However, when you give an affirmative command (telling someone to do something), the pronoun moves to the end of the verb and is attached with a hyphen.

For feminine nouns like la balle (the ball) or la laisse (the leash), attach -la to the end of the command:

Do you have the ball? Throw it!
Tu as la balle ? Lance-la !
Here is the leash. Take it with you.
Voici la laisse. Prends-la avec toi.

For masculine nouns like le jouet (the toy) or un ordre (a command), attach -le:

Say to the dog: "Drop it!"
Dis au chien : « Lâche-le ! »
It is an important command, repeat it.
C'est un ordre important, répète-le.
Here is a biscuit. Give it to the dog!
Voici un biscuit. Donne-le au chien !

If your dog finally obeys, you can reward (récompenser) or pet (caresser) him. Since the dog (le chien) is masculine, you will also use -le:

He obeyed, reward him!
Il a obéi, récompense-le !
He is a good dog, pet him.
C'est un bon chien, caresse-le.

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