Spanish grammar: pronombres reflexivos

What this grammar point covers

Reflexive pronouns in Spanish are words used with verbs to show that the subject does an action to themselves (like 'wash oneself'). They are small words (me, te, se, nos, os, se) that go before the verb or attached to the end of an infinitive.

When to use it

Use reflexive pronouns in Spanish when the subject and the object of the verb are the same person. Commonly used with daily routines (like washing, getting up, dressing) and some emotions or changes of state.

Key forms

• me (yo)
• te (tú)
• se (él, ella, usted)
• nos (nosotros/as)
• os (vosotros/as)
• se (ellos, ellas, ustedes)

Examples

Tips

• Remember to use the reflexive pronoun that matches the subject.
• Reflexive pronouns usually go before the verb, but can be attached to the end of infinitives (for example: 'voy a ducharme').
• Not all verbs with reflexive pronouns translate directly to English reflexives.

Exceptions and edge cases

• Some verbs change meaning when used reflexively (for example, 'ir' means 'to go', but 'irse' means 'to go away').