Pronouns with the formal imperative
When giving a formal command (using the polite Lei form), direct object pronouns like lo (it/him) and la (it/her) must be placed immediately before the verb.
This is a major difference from informal commands, where the pronoun attaches to the end of the verb.
| The form is empty. Fill it out, please. | Il modulo è vuoto. Lo compili, per favore. |
| The television does not work. Check it, there is a fault. | La televisione non funziona. La controlli, c'è un guasto. |
| We have a serious problem. Resolve it immediately. | Abbiamo un problema grave. Lo risolva subito. |
Indirect object pronouns
The exact same rule applies to indirect object pronouns like mi (to me), ci (to us), and gli (to him). Simply place them right in front of the formal command.
| Bring me a hairdryer and another blanket. | Mi porti un asciugacapelli e un'altra coperta. |
| We are cold. Bring us a blanket to the room. | Abbiamo freddo. Ci porti una coperta in stanza. |
| The technician is here, show him the invoice. | Il tecnico è qui, gli mostri la fattura. |
Giving multiple instructions
When you give a sequence of instructions, treat each command independently. Place the correct pronoun before every formal verb that requires an object.
| Write the complaint and leave it at the reception. | Scriva il reclamo e lo lasci alla reception. |
| There is a breakdown, call the technician and resolve it immediately. | C'è un guasto, chiami il tecnico e lo risolva subito. |
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