prepositions – a close look at pe

The preposition pe can sometimes mean something as a direct translation in english or not. As with many rules we often find exceptions Here is how „pe” was explained to...

The preposition pe can sometimes mean something as a direct translation in english or not. As with many rules we often find exceptions :-) Here is how „pe” was explained to me….

pe = on
pe = for
pe = no direct translation
pe = who/for

pe=on
Let’s look at the first instance where pe = on

Carți sunt pe masă. = The books are on the table.

pe = for
Here pe means for , however this is not the usual translation of for. Normally for is written as pentru.

Caut pe vecini dumneavostra. = I’m looking for my neighbor.
Caut pe vecinii Dragos. = I’m looking for my neighbor Dragos.
Cauți pe Mircea? = Are you looking for Mircea.

pe=no english usage – in english this would be omitted.

Întreb pe avocatul Ionescu. = I ask the lawyer Ionescu.
Dece nu întrebi pe mamă? = Why don’t you ask mommy?

Ai luat dicționarele? Pe al meu da (l-am luat,) pe al vostru nu (l-am luat.) = Did you take the dictionaries? I took mine, I didn’t take yours.*

*In this last example you don’t have to say l-am luat, instead it is implied, although i noted where it would be.

pe=for/who? pe cine? used only with people in the accusative.

Astepți pe cinevă? = Are you waiting for someone?
Astept pe Bogdan. = I am waiting for Bogdan.

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