reflexief

Reflexief, or reflexive, is a term used in linguistics to describe constructions in which the action of a verb is directed back onto the subject, so that the subject and the object refer to the same entity. In many languages, reflexivity is expressed with reflexive pronouns or through verb forms that mark the action as performed on oneself.

In Dutch, reflexivity is commonly realized with reflexive pronouns and pronominal verbs. Examples include ik waste mezelf (I washed myself) and hij wast zich (he washes himself). The choice of form depends on person and number, and reflexive pronouns can be used for emphasis or clarity, such as mezelf (myself) or zichzelf (himself/herself). Reflexive constructions are distinct from non-reflexive ones where the subject affects another entity.

Reflexivity can also combine with reciprocity. Phrases using elkaar express mutual action, as in ze hebben elkaar geholpen (they helped each other). Such forms are sometimes analyzed separately from true reflexive constructions, though they involve related relativities between subject and object.

Beyond Dutch, reflexivity is a common feature in many languages, appearing as dedicated pronouns, verb morphology, or clitics. Some languages attach reflexivity directly to the verb, others rely on separate pronouns, and some use both for emphasis. In semantics, reflexive constructions can convey literal self-directed action, but they also support idiomatic or even non-literal meanings, such as reflexive intensification or stance.

See also: pronouns, pronominal verbs, reciprocal pronouns, morphology of reflexives.