Pronominal Verbs

Pronominal verbs in Spanish are verbs that are always accompanied by a reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos, os, se). These pronouns refer back to the subject of the sentence. Pronominal verbs can express different meanings, such as reflexive actions, reciprocal actions, or changes in the subject's state or behavior.

Types of Pronominal Verbs

1. Reflexive Verbs

Reflexive verbs indicate that the subject performs an action on itself.

2. Reciprocal Verbs

Reciprocal verbs express an action that two or more subjects do to each other.

3. Verbs Reflecting a Change in State or Behavior

Some pronominal verbs indicate a change in the subject's state, condition, or behavior.

Examples

Reflexive

Reciprocal

Change of State

Usage Notes

  • Not all verbs can be used pronominally.
  • Some verbs have different meanings when used as pronominal verbs.
  • The reflexive pronoun must agree with the subject in person and number.

Conclusion

Pronominal verbs are an important part of Spanish grammar that allow speakers to express reflexive actions, reciprocal actions, and changes in state or behavior.

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Last updated: Thu Jul 17, 2025

Pronominal Verbs | Verbs | Parts of Speech | Spanish | Monkey College