We use reflexive verbs when the subject and object of a verb are the same. This means, the subject carries out an action for itself and not for someone else.
German
English
Ich wasche mich gerade.
I'm washing myself.
True Reflexive Verbs
Rule 1: Some verbs are always reflexive, which means, we can’t use them without a reflexive pronoun (mich/mir, dich/dir sich, ...). The infinitive of these reflexive verbs is preceded by the pronoun "sich":
German
English
sich befinden
to be located
sich beeilen
to hurry
Rule 2: Reflexive verbs can be reflexive in the accusative or in the dative, but most of the time, we use a reflexive pronoun in the accusative case.
German
English
Ich konzentriere mich.
I am concentrating (myself).
Partial Reflexive Verbs
Rule 3: Some verbs are not always reflexive, we call them partial reflexive verbs. They can be used in both a reflexive or non-reflexive way, depending on the situation. The subject can either act upon itself (aka reflexive pronoun needed) or someone/something else (no reflexive pronoun):
German
English
Die Mutter zieht ihre Tochter an.
The mother dresses her daughter.
Die Mutter zieht sich an.
The mother gets dressed.
Rule 4: Some verbs can have a completely different meaning when they are used as a reflexive verb.
German
English
Ich verlasse mich auf dich.
I'm counting on you.
Sie hat ihren Freund verlassen.
She left her boyfriend.