Reflexive Verben

The reflexive verbs

Reflexive verbs are those that can be used with a reflexive pronoun. They are divided into 3 categories: true reflexive, partially reflexive ,and false reflexive verbs.

True Reflexive Verbs

These verbs will only have a meaning if a reflexive pronoun is present. Examples:

Ich beschwere mich über die schlechten Fotos. (I complain about the bad photos)

Partially reflexive verbs

These verbs can show up either with or without a reflexive pronoun, assuming a different meaning in each case. Examples:

Reflexiv: Ich verlasse mich auf ihn. (I rely on him)

Nicht Reflexiv: Ich verlasse die Firma. (I'm leaving the company)

False Reflexive Verbs

These verbs can show up either with or without a reflexive pronoun but will have the same meaning in both cases. Some of them can also be used with Dativ. Examples:

Reflexiv: Der Mann zieht sich an. (The man gets dressed)

Reflexiv im Dativ: Ich ziehe mir die Bluse an. (I put on my blouse)

Nicht Reflexiv: Die Mutter zieht das Kind an. (The mother dresses the child)

Solve the exercises to learn the reflexive verbs and practice them!