Exploring Reflexive Pronouns in Turkish Language

In Turkish grammar, the reflexive pronoun used is kendi, which can be translated in English as “self” or “own.” Kendi is an indispensable word that can change according to the subject and object of the sentence to emphasize a reflexive action or indicate possession of an object. Let’s study the reflexive pronoun kendi in more depth:

Kendi as a Reflexive Pronoun in Sentences

To use kendi as a reflexive pronoun in a sentence, the pronoun needs to match the person and number of the subject. Below are some examples of different persons and numbers:

• 1st person singular → Kendim (myself)
• 2nd person singular → Kendin (yourself)
• 3rd person singular → Kendisi (himself/herself)
• 1st person plural → Kendimiz (ourselves)
• 2nd person plural → Kendiniz (yourselves)
• 3rd person plural → Kendileri (themselves)

Kendi in Possessive Structures

Kendi can also indicate possession when used with the possessive suffixes:

• 1st person singular → Kendi-m (my own)
• 2nd person singular → Kendi-n (your own)
• 3rd person singular → Kendi-si (his/her own)
• 1st person plural → Kendi-miz (our own)
• 2nd person plural → Kendi-niz (your own)
• 3rd person plural → Kendi-leri (their own)

In this case, kendi denotes ownership of something, like in the sentence “Bu kendi evim” meaning “This is my own house.”

Formation of Reflexive Verbs

Besides reflexive pronouns, Turkish grammar also has reflexive verbs, which indicate an action where the subject and object are the same. The reflexive verb in Turkish can be formed by adding the suffix “-(I)n” to the verb stem. Consider the following examples:

• Giyinmek (to get dressed)
• Kendini temizlemek (to clean oneself)
• Tıraş olmak (to shave)

Conclusion

Reflexive pronouns in Turkish grammar are essential tools for expressing a wide range of meanings related to the subject and their actions. Mastering the use of kendi as a reflexive pronoun and understanding possessive structures will enable you to speak and write Turkish more accurately and confidently. Additionally, learning how to form reflexive verbs will add another layer of depth to your Turkish language skills.