Dutch grammar: gebruik van wederkerende werkwoorden

What this grammar point covers

Reflexive verbs in Dutch are verbs used when the subject and the object of the action are the same person. In Dutch, these verbs are used with a reflexive pronoun, usually 'zich'.

When to use it

Use reflexive verbs in Dutch when someone does something to themselves, for example washing oneself, dressing, or remembering something. Some verbs always require a reflexive pronoun, while others only use it in certain situations.

Key forms

• zich wassen
• ik was me
• jij wast je
• hij/zij wast zich
• wij wassen ons
• jullie wassen je
• zij wassen zich

Examples

Tips

• Always use the correct reflexive pronoun with the subject (me, je, zich, ons).
• Some verbs can be reflexive or not, depending on the meaning.
• The reflexive pronoun usually comes right after the verb.

Exceptions and edge cases

• Some verbs always need a reflexive pronoun, even if it seems unnecessary.
• With modal verbs (like 'kunnen', 'moeten'), the reflexive pronoun comes before the infinitive: 'Ik moet me haasten.'