Reflexive Verbs in Czech: Si & Se

The more you dive into the Czech language the more quirks you'll find. One of them is reflexive verbs - a fascinating aspect of grammar that adds depth and nuance to your communication.

It's not just Czech which uses verbs like this, but in Czech there's a bit of a different spin on them.

Let's take an in-depth look at reflexive verbs in Czech! You'll see some examples and get practical tips to help you master this essential aspect of the language.

Practice reflexive verbs in Czech here:

Understanding Reflexive Verbs

Reflexive verbs are verbs where the subject and object of the action are the same entity.

Another way to understand them: the action of the verb reflects back onto the subject, meaning that the subject is both the doer and receiver of the action.

Even simpler: A reflexive verb is when someone does an action to themselves.

In English, we use reflexive pronouns like "myself," "yourself," "himself," and "herself" to show what's going on here.

For example: I teach myself. - This is a reflexive use of the verb "to teach".
Alternatively: I teach my student. - You are doing the teaching, but the student is being taught.
The verb is suddenly not reflexive, because the teacher and the student (the subject and the object) are now not the same individual.

Now, let's see how to use reflexive verbs in Czech...

Reflexive Verbs in Czech

In Czech, reflexive verbs are formed by attaching a reflexive pronoun to the verb stem.

For example, you can say something like umývám se - I wash myself.

There are two reflective pronouns: "se" and "si".

Everything depends on the verb. Some verbs always take a reflexive pronoun, some never. You just have to practice these verbs and you will get used to always hearing some verbs with a pronoun.

Soon it will sound a bit funny if the pronoun is missing from a certain verb!

Now, let's explore some common reflexive verbs in Czech:

Reflexive Pronoun "si":

• všimnout si - to notice
• sednout si - to sit
• důvěřovat si - to trust

Reflexive Pronoun "se":

• zamilovat se - to fall in love
• smát se - to laugh
• bát se - to be afraid

Both "si" and "se":

• mýt se - to wash
• mýt si (něco) - to wash (somthing)
• pamatovat si - memorize
• pamatovat se (na) - recall

Reflexive verbs can be challenging. The general rule is, if the verb can stand on its own, it uses se.
You can see that the verbs listed in the "se" section don't really require any other information...you can fall in love without mentioning who you've fallen in love with, for example.

If it's mentioned what the verb is acting on, then it usually takes si.
For example, you can see that "mýt si (něco)" takes "si", while "mýt se" takes "se".
When we are describing what we are washing, "si" is used.

However, as usual in Czech there are exceptions!

Pamatovat si/pamatovat se are using the pronoun in exactly the opposite way that the rule describes.

As usual, we recommend that you simply practice Czech reflexive verbs and get used to what they mean with different pronouns.

It's much easier than pulling your hair out trying to remember the rules while talking to someone!

Common Mistakes with Reflexive Verbs

While learning Czech reflexive verbs, it's crucial to steer clear of common pitfalls.
Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Neglecting to include the reflexive pronoun with the verb.
Remember, using the reflexive pronoun is essential to communicate reflexive actions accurately.

Misplacing the reflexive pronoun.
In Czech, the reflexive pronoun typically comes before the verb, so be mindful of its position in your sentence structure.

That second mistake may sound strange, since the verbs we just showed you had the reflexive pronoun coming after the verb.

If you have a verb which is its own subject, the reflexive pronoun will come afterwards.

For example: kupuji si auto - I am buying myself a car

In basically any other situation, the reflexive pronoun will come first.
For example, if you add "Já" to the last sentence for emphasis:

Já si kupuji auto - I am buying myself a car (it's not someone else buying me that car)

Here are some more examples of reflexive pronouns:

• Ráno se probouzím brzo - In the morning I wake (myself) up early
• Ona se nikdy nebaví na večírcích - She never enjoys herself at parties
• Kdy si plánujete udělat dovolenou? - When are you planning to take your vacation?
• Co si chceš dát k večeři? - What do you want to have for dinner? (What do you want "to give yourself" for dinner?)
• Oni se na tu akci rozhodně nezaregistrují - They definitely won't register (themselves) for that event
• Sedíme spolu v parku a užíváme si klidu - We are sitting together in the park and enjoying the peace
• Něco není v pořádku, protože děti si hrají tiše - Something is wrong because children are playing quietly
• Posaďte se, prosím - Sit (yourself) down, please
• Co si přejete k pití? - What would you like to drink? (What would you "wish for yourself" to drink?)
• Po cvičení si dávám teplý sprchový zábal - After exercise, I have (I give myself) a warm shower wrap

Conclusion

Whether you're talking about washing up, getting dressed, or simply smiling, don't forget to incorporate these reflexive pronouns and bring your Czech language skills to life!

With dedication, practice, and a firm grasp of reflexive verbs, you'll navigate the intricacies of Czech grammar with confidence and fluency. Happy learning!