Reflexive Prepositions
When describing where something is in relation to the subject of the sentence—like carrying an item "with you" or placing an object "next to you"—Dutch uses a preposition followed by a reflexive pronoun.
The pronoun you use depends on the subject:
- For ik (I), use me
- For jij/je (you), use je
- For hij, zij/ze, het (he/she/it), and zij (they), use zich
Having Things "With" You
The most common combination is bij + a reflexive pronoun, which translates to having something "with" you (such as in your pockets or a bag).
| I always have my ID card with me. | Ik heb mijn identiteitskaart altijd bij me. |
| Do you have a tissue with you? | Heb je een zakdoek bij je? |
Notice how third-person subjects (like he, she, or they) must use zich instead of an object pronoun like hem or haar.
| He has no loose change with him. | Hij heeft geen kleingeld bij zich. |
| She always has chewing gum and a hair tie with her. | Zij heeft altijd kauwgom en een elastiekje bij zich. |
Other Directions
This same rule applies to other prepositions of location, such as achter (behind) and naast (next to). Whenever the position refers back to the subject of the sentence, use the reflexive pronoun.
| She looks behind her before she crosses over. | Zij kijkt achter zich voordat ze oversteekt. |
| The man puts the notebook next to him. | De man legt het notitieboekje naast zich. |
Your questions are stored by us to improve Elon.io