Learn German Intermediate | Reflexivverben | Reflexivpronomen | B1 - Lesson 1

Summary

This video lesson provides an in-depth explanation of reflexive verbs in German. It covers key concepts such as reflexive pronouns (both accusative and dative), how they relate to the subject of the sentence, and their use in different contexts. Through various examples, the video illustrates how reflexive verbs are used in sentences with both direct and indirect objects. The lesson also addresses word order, including the placement of reflexive pronouns in normal sentences, questions, and subordinate clauses. It concludes with practical tips for learning and applying reflexive verbs, offering viewers the opportunity to practice and expand their knowledge.

Takeaways

• 😀 Reflexive verbs are verbs that require a reflexive pronoun (like 'sich' in German) to indicate that the action is performed by the subject on itself.
• 😀 Reflexive verbs are used with both accusative and dative objects, depending on the verb's structure.
• 😀 In sentences with reflexive verbs, the reflexive pronoun always matches the subject in both accusative and dative cases.
• 😀 Reflexive verbs with accusative objects include examples like 'ich schminke mich' (I put on makeup), where 'mich' is the reflexive pronoun in the accusative case.
• 😀 Reflexive verbs with dative objects include examples like 'ich putze mir die Zähne' (I brush my teeth), where 'mir' is the reflexive pronoun in the dative case.
• 😀 Reflexive verbs can sometimes use prepositions, like in 'wir freuen uns auf den Urlaub' (we look forward to the vacation), where 'auf' is the preposition.
• 😀 Reflexive pronouns change based on the subject and the case (accusative or dative). For instance, 'ich' becomes 'mich' in the accusative and 'mir' in the dative.
• 😀 The reflexive pronoun is typically placed directly after the verb in a sentence. For example, 'sie ernährt sich sehr gesund' (she eats very healthily).
• 😀 Reflexive verbs are sometimes used in questions, such as 'Weißt du dich?' (Do you know yourself?), with the reflexive pronoun placed after the subject.
• 😀 Understanding the reflexive pronouns and their correct placement in sentences is essential for mastering reflexive verbs in German.

Q & A

What are reflexive verbs in German?

Reflexive verbs in German are verbs that require a reflexive pronoun because the subject and the object of the sentence refer to the same person. For example, 'sich waschen' (to wash oneself) or 'sich erholen' (to recover).

How are reflexive verbs formed in German?

Reflexive verbs are formed with the reflexive pronoun, such as 'sich' in the infinitive form. The reflexive pronouns change based on the subject of the sentence and the case, either accusative or dative.

Can you give an example of reflexive verbs with accusative objects?

An example of reflexive verbs with an accusative object is 'Ich schminke mich' (I put on makeup), where 'mich' is the reflexive pronoun in the accusative case.

What is the difference between reflexive verbs with accusative and dative objects?

Reflexive verbs with an accusative object involve the direct object being affected by the action (e.g., 'Ich wasche mich' – I wash myself). Reflexive verbs with a dative object involve an indirect object, indicating that the action is being done for someone (e.g., 'Ich putze mir die Zähne' – I brush my teeth).

What are reflexive pronouns in the accusative case?

In the accusative case, the reflexive pronouns are: mich (I), dich (you), sich (he/she/it), uns (we), euch (you all), sich (they/you formal).

How do reflexive pronouns differ in the accusative and dative cases?

Reflexive pronouns differ in the accusative and dative cases. In the accusative case, they are: mich, dich, sich, uns, euch, sich. In the dative case, they are: mir, dir, sich, uns, euch, sich. The pronouns for 'ich' and 'du' change between the cases, but the others are the same.

Where do reflexive pronouns typically appear in a sentence?

Reflexive pronouns typically appear directly after the verb in a statement. In a question, they appear after the subject, for example, 'Weißt du dich?' (Do you know yourself?).

Can reflexive verbs be used with prepositions?

Yes, reflexive verbs can be used with prepositions. For example, 'Wir freuen uns auf den Urlaub' (We are looking forward to the vacation), where 'sich freuen' is combined with the preposition 'auf.'

How can reflexive pronouns be used in subordinate clauses?

In subordinate clauses, reflexive pronouns follow the same rules as in main clauses, but their position depends on the structure of the sentence. For example, 'Ich kann heute nicht arbeiten, weil ich mich erkältet habe' (I can’t work today because I’ve caught a cold).

What is a key point to remember about reflexive verbs in German?

A key point to remember is that reflexive verbs always require a reflexive pronoun, which must match the subject of the sentence and change according to the case (accusative or dative). Additionally, the reflexive pronoun often refers back to the subject performing the action.