Confusion between using dal or al?

Hi

In lesson 6.8 dal is used in “Andiamo in fretta dal medico” but al is used in “Parla dolcemente al bambino”. I thought that al was used to mean “to the” and dal for “from the”. So I am a bit confused why dal is used to say “to the doctor”. Could you help explain please?

Thanks

Ciao Erol,

Great question! Understanding when to use "dal" vs. "al" can be tricky, so let's break it down:

1. Dal: This contraction is formed by combining "da" (from, by) and "il" (the). However, it is also commonly used to indicate movement toward a person, often in professional contexts.
  - Example: "Andiamo in fretta dal medico" (Let's go quickly to the doctor).
    - Here, "dal" is used because it's common in Italian to use "da" when going to someone's place, particularly a professional's office (e.g., doctor, dentist).

2. Al: This contraction combines "a" (to, at) and "il" (the). It is used to indicate direction or position when referring to a place or a thing.
  - Example: "Parla dolcemente al bambino" (Speak gently to the child).
    - In this case, "al" is used to indicate direction towards the child, which is a more general context.

So, while "dal" often indicates going to a person, particularly professionals, "al" indicates direction towards places or things.

Feel free to post your questions on the forum; it's a great way to get answers and help others!

Grazie e buona serata!
Enxhi