Understanding Reflexive Pronouns in Dutch
Reflexive pronouns in Dutch are special words used when the subject and the object of a sentence are the same person or thing. This means the action of the verb is being done by the subject to itself.
Important Points
- Reflexive pronouns are used with reflexive verbs.
- They are important to show who is receiving the action.
- Different reflexive pronouns are used depending on the subject.
Common Reflexive Pronouns
Important Points
- mij (myself)
- je/jou (yourself, informal)
- zich (himself, herself, itself, themselves)
- ons (ourselves)
- u (yourself, formal)
The reflexive pronoun 'zich' is special because it can be used for himself, herself, itself, and themselves. It is used with 'hij', 'zij', 'het', and 'ze'.
Examples
- Ik was mij elke ochtend.
- Hij schaamt zich voor zijn fout.
- Wij vermaken ons op het feestje.
How to Use Reflexive Pronouns
Reflexive pronouns usually come after the verb. They help to make it clear that the subject is doing something to itself. For example, if you wash your own hands, you would use a reflexive pronoun.
Examples
- Jij vergist je in het antwoord.
- Zij houdt zich aan de regels.
- U verwondt u niet opzettelijk.
The best way to learn how to use reflexive pronouns is by practicing with different sentences. Try to make your own sentences using reflexive pronouns and see how they change the meaning of the sentence.