Common Reflexive Verbs in Spanish

Spanish reflexive verbs, or verbos reflexivos, are an integral part of the Spanish. These verbs indicate actions performed by the subject upon themselves. They are identified by the reflexive pronoun se attached to the end of their infinitive forms.

This article explores the most common reflexive verbs in Spanish, their usage, and context in a sentence.

Common Reflexive Verbs

1. Llamarse: This verb translates as “to call oneself”. It’s often used when asking or telling someone’s name. Example: “Me llamo María.” (My name is Maria.)
2. Lavarse: Meaning “to wash oneself”, this verb is commonly used in the context of daily routines. Example: “Ella se lava las manos.” (She washes her hands.)
3. Vestirse: This verb is used when someone is getting dressed. It translates to “to dress oneself”. Example: “Nos vestimos para la fiesta.” (We are getting dressed for the party.)
4. Peinarse: This verb is used when referring to combing one’s hair. The English translation is “to comb oneself”. Example: “Tú te peinas cada mañana.” (You comb your hair every morning.)
5. Despertarse: This verb is commonly used to describe the act of waking up. The English translation is “to wake oneself up”. Example: “Me despierto temprano.” (I wake up early.)
6. Acostarse: Acostarse means “to go to bed” or “to lay oneself down”. Example: “Ellos se acuestan a las 10.” (They go to bed at 10.)
7. Divertirse: This verb means “to enjoy oneself” or “to have fun”. Example: “Nos divertimos en el concierto.” (We had fun at the concert.)
8. Sentirse: This verb translates to “to feel”. It is usually followed by an adjective to express how someone is feeling. Example: “Me siento cansado.” (I feel tired.)
9. Preocuparse: Preocuparse translates to “to worry”. Example: “No te preocupes.” (Don’t worry.)
10. Enamorarse: This verb means “to fall in love”. Example: “Ella se enamoró de él a primera vista.” (She fell in love with him at first sight.)

Mastering the use of reflexive verbs is a vital aspect of becoming fluent in Spanish. While there are many more reflexive verbs in the language, the ones mentioned in this article are some of the most commonly used in everyday conversation. Understanding these verbs, their conjugation, and their context will significantly improve your Spanish language proficiency. Remember, practice makes perfect, so take every opportunity to incorporate these verbs into your Spanish dialogues.

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