ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Differential object marking

Differential object marking is when we add extra little bits to some words in a sentence to show that they are special or important. Similar to how we might put a special sticker on some of our toys to show they're our favorites.

In some languages, we add these extra bits to words that are objects or things that are receiving an action. For example, in Spanish, we might say "La niña compró el juguete" which means "the girl bought the toy." In this sentence, "el juguete" is the object or thing she is buying.

But, if we want to show that the object is extra special or important, we might add an extra little bit to it. In Spanish, we would add "a" before the object, like this: "La niña compró **a** el juguete." This tells us that the toy is very important to the girl and she really wants it.

So, differential object marking is a way of adding special little pieces to some words in a sentence to show that they are extra important or special. It's like putting a special sticker on your favorite toy or food!