Spanish 101 · Comparison
reflexivo vs. no reflexivo
Reflexive verbs act on the subject; non-reflexive act on others.
The core distinction
Reflexive verbs act on the subject; non-reflexive act on others.
When you are unsure, ask: does the sentence stress identity, location, time, purpose, completion, or familiarity? The columns below collect the patterns Spanish 101/102 courses drill most often — match them to what your professor models in class.
When to use each
reflexivo
- Action on self: Me lavo.
- Daily routines: Me despierto a las 7.
- Requires reflexive pronoun: me/te/se/nos/os/se
Me llamo Ana.
Ella se peina.
Nos levantamos temprano.
no reflexivo
- Action on someone/something else: Lavo el carro.
- No reflexive pronoun needed
- Object is separate from subject
Llamo a Ana.
Ella peina a su hija.
Levantamos las cajas.
FAQ
When do you use reflexivo vs. no reflexivo in Spanish?
Reflexive verbs act on the subject; non-reflexive act on others. Use the bullet lists and examples on this page as a checklist.
What is the difference between reflexivo and no reflexivo?
They often look similar in English glosses, but Spanish keeps separate patterns. Read the left column for the first idea and the right column for the second.
How do I remember when to use reflexivo?
Memorize two or three “signature” sentences from each side, then swap words to build your own. Short daily practice in Chapurra locks in the contrast faster than cramming.