In affirmative commands, reflexive pronouns attach to the end of the verb (like lève-toi !).
In negative commands, the reflexive pronoun stays in its normal position directly in front of the verb, between ne and the verb.
Negative commands with "tu"
The pronoun te does not change to toi in negative commands. It stays te (or t' before a vowel).
| Don't lean out the window, it is dangerous! | Ne te penche pas par la fenêtre, c'est dangereux ! |
| Don't go near this dog! | Ne t'approche pas de ce chien ! |
| Don't hurt yourself with this knife. | Ne te blesse pas avec ce couteau. |
Negative commands with "vous" and "nous"
The pattern is exactly the same for vous (plural/formal) and nous ("let's").
| It is dangerous, do not lean out! | C'est dangereux, ne vous penchez pas ! |
| The oven is dangerous, do not burn yourselves! | Le four est dangereux, ne vous brûlez pas ! |
| Let's not get dirty in the forest! | Ne nous salissons pas dans la forêt ! |
| Let's not get angry in front of the children. | Ne nous fâchons pas devant les enfants. |
Remember the pattern: ne + reflexive pronoun + verb + pas.
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