Selbstreflexives

Selbstreflexives, also known as reflexive pronouns, are a grammatical category of pronouns that refer back to the subject of the sentence or clause. These pronouns are used to indicate that the action of the verb is performed by the same entity that is the subject of the sentence, often emphasizing a reciprocal or internal relationship. In many languages, including German, reflexive pronouns are essential for expressing actions where the subject acts upon itself.

In German, selbstreflexive verbs are typically formed by combining a reflexive pronoun (such as *sich*, *mich*, *dich*, *uns*, *euch*, or *sich*) with a verb. For example, in the sentence *Ich wasche mich*, the reflexive pronoun *mich* refers back to the subject *ich*, indicating that the action of washing is performed on oneself. Without the reflexive pronoun, the sentence would imply an external action, such as *Ich wasche den Hund* ("I wash the dog").

The use of reflexives can also convey emphasis or intensity, as in *Er selbst hat das gemacht* ("He himself did it"), where *selbst* (itself) reinforces the subject's agency. Additionally, some verbs in German are inherently reflexive, meaning they require a reflexive pronoun to be grammatically correct. Examples include *sich waschen* ("to wash oneself"), *sich kämmen* ("to comb oneself"), and *sich schneiden* ("to cut oneself"). These verbs are distinct from separable prefix verbs, which involve a prefix that separates from the verb in certain contexts but is not inherently reflexive.

Reflexive pronouns in German must agree with the subject in person and number. For instance, *wir* (we) would use *uns* ("ourselves"), while *sie* (she/he/they) would use *sich* ("herself/himself/themselves"). Misalignment between the subject and reflexive pronoun can result in grammatical errors, emphasizing the importance of proper agreement in German syntax.