REFLEXIVE VERBS IN SPANISH
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Reflexive verbs (verbos reflexivos) are essential building blocks for Spanish fluency. These verbs show that the subject performs an action on themselves, like “I wash myself” (Yo me lavo). Did you know? Reflexive verbs appear in approximately 1 out of 3 Spanish conversations, making them crucial for daily communication.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
✔ What reflexive verbs are & how to use them
✔ Conjugation rules for all tenses
✔ Practice tips for beginners to advanced learners
What Are Reflexive Verbs?
Reflexive verbs include reflexive pronouns (me, te, se, nos, os, se) that indicate the action reflects back on the subject.
Example:
- Lavarse (to wash oneself) → Yo me lavo (I wash myself)
How to Conjugate Reflexive Verbs
Follow these 3 simple steps:
- Remove “-se” from the infinitive (lavarse → lavar)
- Conjugate the verb as usual (lavo)
- Add the matching pronoun (yo me lavo)
Present Tense Conjugation Example:
| Pronoun | Reflexive Pronoun | Lavarse (to wash) |
|---|---|---|
| Yo | me | me lavo |
| Tú | te | te lavas |
| Él/Ella | se | se lava |
| Nosotros | nos | nos lavamos |
| Vosotros | os | os laváis |
| Ellos | se | se lavan |
💡 Pro Tip: Use our Interactive Conjugation Tool to practice any reflexive verb in all tenses – perfect for mastering irregular forms!
5 Key Rules for Spanish Reflexive Verbs
1. Pronoun Placement Rules
- Before conjugated verbs: “Me levanto temprano” (I get up early)
- Attached to infinitives/gerunds: “Voy a lavarme” / “Está cepillándose”
2. Non-Reflexive vs. Reflexive Meanings
Some verbs change meaning:
- Dormir (to sleep) → Dormirse (to fall asleep)
- Ir (to go) → Irse (to leave)
3. Body Parts & Clothing
Use definite articles, not possessives:
✅ “Me lavo las manos” (I wash my hands)
❌ “Lavo mis manos”
4. Reciprocal Actions
Use nos/se when subjects act on each other:
- “Nos abrazamos” (We hug each other)
5. Always Reflexive Verbs
Some verbs can’t be used without pronouns:
- Arrepentirse (to regret)
- Quejarse (to complain)
Common Reflexive Verb Categories
Daily Routines:
- Despertarse – to wake up
- Ducharse – to shower
- Vestirse – to get dressed
Emotions & Feelings:
- Alegrarse – to become happy
- Enojarse – to get angry
- Preocuparse – to worry
Reciprocal Actions:
- Abrazarse – to hug each other
- Saludarse – to greet each other
Ready to practice? Take our Reflexive Verbs Quiz to test your knowledge!
Next Step: Explore our complete list of 100+ Spanish reflexive verbs with detailed examples and conjugation tools.
