Language/Ukrainian/Grammar/Verbs---Reflexive-and-Imperative
In this lesson, you will learn how to form and use reflexive and imperative verbs in Ukrainian. These are important and commonly used verb categories in the language, so understanding them will greatly improve your communication skills.
Reflexive Verbs
Reflexive verbs are used when the subject and object of a sentence refer to the same thing. This is indicated by the use of a reflexive pronoun. In Ukrainian, reflexive pronouns are formed by adding the suffix "-ся" to the end of the verb.
For example, the verb "мити" means "to wash." To make it reflexive, we add "-ся" to the end: "митися" (to wash oneself).
Here are some more examples:
| Ukrainian | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| готуватися | hɔtu'vatisja | to prepare oneself |
| розумітися | rɔzu'mitɪsʲa | to understand each other |
| звернутися | zvɛrnu'tɪsʲa | to address oneself to |
Note that in the present tense, reflexive verbs use the reflexive pronoun as the object of the sentence. For example: "Я миюсь" (I am washing myself).
In addition to the present tense, reflexive verbs can also be used in the past and future tenses. Here is an example in the past tense:
"Я вчора мився" (I washed myself yesterday).
And here is an example in the future tense:
"Я піде гуляти, коли помиється" (I will go for a walk when I wash myself).
Imperative Verbs
Imperative verbs are used to give commands or orders. In Ukrainian, imperative verbs are formed by using the stem of the verb and adding the appropriate ending.
The imperative forms of verbs can vary depending on the gender and number of the person being addressed. For example, the imperative form of the verb "читати" (to read) can be:
| Gender | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Masculine | читай | читайте |
| Feminine | читай | читайте |
| Neuter | читай | читайте |
Here are some more examples of imperative verbs:
- "Напиши" (write)
- "Приготуйте" (prepare)
- "Послухайте" (listen)
Note that in informal situations, the imperative form can sometimes be simplified by dropping the subject pronoun. For example: "Йди туди" (Go there).
Conclusion
By learning how to form and use reflexive and imperative verbs, you will greatly improve your ability to communicate in Ukrainian. Remember to pay attention to the gender and number of the person being addressed, and don't hesitate to ask for clarification if you are not sure how to use these verb forms in a particular context.
Sources
Videos
Imperative Mood in Ukrainian: grammar and practice | 70+ VERBS ...