italiano · A2 · grammar · 4 minutes
Reflexive verb word order
Keep mi/ti/si/ci/vi/si before finite verbs and attach them to infinitives or positive commands.
Understand the choice
Routine verbs show two positions clearly: ci corichiamo is finite, while riposarci attaches ci to the infinitive. Negation does not separate a finite pronoun from its verb.
Core rule: A reflexive pronoun precedes a finite verb but attaches to an infinitive after its final -e is removed.
Notice it in context
La sera ci corichiamo presto per riposarci.
In the evening we go to bed early to rest.
Ci precedes corichiamo; the same ci attaches to riposarci after per.
Non si trucca durante il fine settimana.
She does not put on makeup at the weekend.
Non precedes the unit si trucca.
Devo sbrigarmi.
I have to hurry.
Mi attaches to sbrigare after final -e drops.
What to remember
- A pronoun may alternatively precede a modal: mi devo sbrigare.
- Positive commands attach pronouns: alzati!; negative tu commands allow non alzarti.
Common trap: Do not keep final -e before an attached pronoun: riposarsi, not riposare-si.