German grammar: Reflexive Verben mit Präposition

What this grammar point covers

Reflexive verbs with prepositions in German are verbs that require both a reflexive pronoun (like 'sich') and a specific preposition. The preposition often determines which case (accusative or dative) follows.

When to use it

Use this grammar when talking about actions that someone does to themselves, and where the verb always needs a certain preposition. The meaning can change depending on which preposition is used.

Key forms

• sich + Verb + Präposition + Nomen/Pronomen
• Beispiel: sich freuen auf + Akkusativ
• Beispiel: sich interessieren für + Akkusativ

Examples

Tips

• Always use the correct reflexive pronoun that matches the subject.
• Pay attention to the preposition and the case that follows it (often accusative, sometimes dative).
• Do not leave out the preposition; it is required for the meaning.

Exceptions and edge cases

• Some verbs change their meaning with different prepositions (e.g., 'sich freuen auf' vs. 'sich freuen über').