A is used before a direct object if it is a person. Direct objects following the verb tener form an exception.
| Spanish | English |
|---|---|
| conozco a Juan | I know Juan |
| ayudar a alguien | to help someone |
| no oigo a nadie | I do not hear anyone |
| tengo una hija | I have a daughter |
Some frequently used phrases with a:
| Spanish | English |
|---|---|
| a lo más | at most |
| a propósito | by the way |
| al principio | at first |