Dutch grammar: reflexieve werkwoorden

What this grammar point covers

Reflexive verbs in Dutch are verbs where the subject and the object are the same person. You use a reflexive pronoun (like 'me', 'je', 'zich') with the verb.

When to use it

Use reflexive verbs in Dutch when someone does something to themselves, like washing, dressing, or remembering. It often describes daily routines or personal actions.

Key forms

• zich + verb (e.g., zich wassen)
• ik was me
• jij wast je
• hij/zij wast zich

Examples

Tips

• Always use the correct reflexive pronoun with the verb.
• Some verbs are always reflexive in Dutch, even if they are not in your language.
• The reflexive pronoun changes with the subject (me, je, zich, ons, jullie, zich).

Exceptions and edge cases

• Some verbs can be reflexive or not, depending on the meaning.
• For 'jij' in questions, the order is: Was jij je?