Controlarla

controlarla is the non-finite form in Spanish produced by attaching the feminine direct object pronoun la to the infinitive of the verb controlar. The literal meaning is “to control her.” The base verb controlar means to exercise control over someone or something, and la refers to a feminine antecedent introduced in context (a person or a feminine noun).

Grammatical usage: When the pronoun is attached to non-finite forms, it is written as a single word: controlar + la = controlarla; similarly, controlándola means “controlling her.” In finite verb constructions, the pronoun typically appears before the conjugated verb (la controla). In affirmative imperatives or other non-finite forms, the pronoun can also appear attached to the end in certain constructions, with spelling and accent rules guiding pronunciation.

Semantic notes: The phrase is neutral in form but its interpretation depends on context and tone. It can describe a straightforward action of exerting control or be used in discussions of power, influence, or manipulation. Examples include sentences like “Quieren controlarla” (They want to control her) or “Controlarla sería inapropiado” (Trying to control her would be inappropriate).

See also: Spanish grammar; pronouns in Spanish; controlar; direct object pronouns.