Spanish Reflexive Pronouns

This set covers the definition, forms, placement rules, and usage of reflexive pronouns in Spanish as discussed in the video transcript.

Reflexive Pronouns

Words used when the subject and direct object of the reflexive verb are the same, referring to actions performed on oneself or that others perform on themselves.

Me

The reflexive pronoun meaning 'myself'.

Te

The reflexive pronoun meaning 'yourself'.

Se

The reflexive pronoun meaning the formal 'yourself', 'himself', 'herself', 'yourselves' (plural), or 'themselves'.

Nos

The reflexive pronoun meaning 'ourselves'.

Infinitive Placement

Reflexive pronouns can be placed at the end of an infinitive verb (e.g., 'bañarme') or at the beginning of a conjugated verb that ends with an infinitive (e.g., 'Me tengo que bañar').

Progressive Verbs Placement

Reflexive pronouns can be placed behind or in front of the progressive verb (e.g., 'Estoy bañándome' or 'Me estoy bañando').

Affirmative Commands Placement

Reflexive pronouns are always placed at the end of the conjugated verb (e.g., '¡Mírate!').

Negative Commands Placement

Reflexive pronouns are placed after the negative word 'no' and before the verb in the subjunctive (e.g., 'No te laves las manos').

Object Pronouns vs. Reflexive Pronouns

Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject matches the receiver of the action; object pronouns are used when the subject is not the one receiving the action.

Subject Pronouns (Yo, Tú, Ella, etc.)

In reflexive sentences, these are completely optional (e.g., 'Nosotros nos lavamos las manos' or 'Nos lavamos las manos').