zelf

Zelf is a Dutch word that functions as both a pronoun and a morpheme in compounds, meaning “self” or “oneself.” It is used to refer to the subject in reflexive constructions, to emphasize the actor, or as a basis for self-related words such as self-image and self-reliance. In standard usage, it appears in forms like mezelf, jezelf, uzelf for emphatic or reflexive references, and zichzelf or zichzelf for third-person emphasis.

Etymology and cognates: Zelf originates in Old Dutch as a base meaning “self.” It has clear cognates in other Germanic languages, such as German selbst and English self. The word also appears in related Dutch terms with related senses, and it serves as a productive root in many modern compounds.

Usage and grammar: As a pronoun, zelf can refer to the subject for emphasis or reflexivity. Examples include “Ik doe het zelf” (I will do it myself) and “Zij ziet zichzelf in de spiegel” (She sees herself in the mirror). For emphasis with different persons, forms like mezelf, jezelf, uzelf are common, while the third-person emphasis is typically formed with zichzelf or zichzelf for emphasis. Zelf is also a common building block in compounds that express self-related concepts, such as zelfstandig (independent), zelfbewust (self-aware), zelfvertrouwen (self-confidence), en zelfbeeld (self-image).

See also: Dutch pronouns, reflexive constructions in Dutch, Germanic language cognates, self-related compounds in Dutch.