mezelf

Mezelf is the Dutch reflexive pronoun used with the subject ik (I) to refer back to the speaker. It is formed with the pronoun zelf (self) and is part of a small set of reflexive forms such as mezelf, jezelf, zichzelf, onszelf, julliezelf, and uzelf. Mezelf stands in for the object of a verb when the action is directed at the subject.

Usage and function

Mezelf is typically used as the object of a verb in reflexive constructions, especially when the action is performed on or for the speaker. It can also be used for emphasis or to express a strong connection between the subject and the action. In many everyday sentences, Dutch prefers the shorter me or mij as the object, while mezelf appears mainly in reflexive or emphatic contexts. Examples include: Ik zie mezelf in de spiegel (I see myself in the mirror); Ik geef mezelf wat rust (I give myself some rest); Ik leer mezelf klavierspelen (I teach myself to play piano). For second-person usage, jezelf is common (Je moet jezelf beschermen). For third-person usage, zichzelf or zichzelf may appear depending on emphasis.

Forms and variations

The standard reflexive forms are determined by person and number: mezelf (first person singular), jezelf (second person singular informal), uzelf (second person singular formal or affectionate use), zichzelf (third person singular or plural), onszelf (first person plural), julliezelf or uzelf (second person plural). In practice, deference to context and register determines which form is used; jezelf and zichzelf are frequent in speech, while zichzelf appears mainly in emphasis in some contexts.

Etymology

Zelf means self, and adding me, jezelf, of zichzelf creates a reflexive pronoun tied to the subject. The system mirrors reflexive pronouns in many Germanic languages, with distinct forms for emphasis and standard reflexive use.

See also: Dutch pronouns, reflexive verbs, self-reference.