How do I know how to use se for reflexive verbs?

Question

In Spanish,we have reflexive verbs, it is when an action is being done to yourself or to one's self. we use yo me nosotros nos tú te vosotros vos ella/ello.ud. se ellos/ellas/uds. se

When do I know to put the reflexive verb before or after the literal verb?

ex:

duchar(se) or (se) ducha?

Answer 1

¡Hola!, dhines:

First, welcome to SpanishDict and this forum. We hope you enjoy the time you spend here and benefit from it all.

You need to read this reference page ----> Reflexive Verbs, and

You need to work your way through this lesson ----> Reflexive Verbs and Morning Routine

I suggest you do the lesson first.

Muchos saludos/Best regards,

Moe

Answer 2

Hey, my Spanish professor explained it like this:

Reflexive pronouns are used to stress/indicate that an action is being done to SPECIFICALLY to that person.

It specifies a difference from:

Juan is showering

and

Juan is showering HIMSELF.

Carla, she is brushing teeth.

OR

Carla, she is is brushing HER teeth.

I hope that helps a little!!

Answer 3

The reflexive pronoun (or any pronoun for that matter) will be attached to the end of the verb for 3 reasons.

1) The verb is an infinitive (example: Norma puede pintarse las uñas. Norma can paint her own nails.

2) The verb is a gerundio (-ing verb) (example: ¿Está duchandose? Are you taking a shower?) [does duchandose need an accent?]

3) The verb is an imperative (¡Levántate! - Get up!) [is my accent placement correct?]

Other than those reasons, the "se" or any pronoun will precede the verb.