I don't understand why some verbes pronominaux use s'y instead of se. What is the function of the y? And how does it change the meaning?
It's always best to give a complete of what you see, or have seen. "y" is the pronoun referring to things or places. It generally replaces "à + noun" but may also replace other prepositions of position, such as "chez, dans, en, sous, or sur + noun."
In English "y" most commonly means "to it (them), in it (them), on it (them), and there (when the place has already been mentioned). Sometimes the equivalent is not even expressed in English.
Another pronoun usually studied with "y" is "en" but I don't know if you have done that.
The "e" in a verbe pronominal (me, te, se) drops the "e" when "y" or "en" is added.
Hopefully, this is what you need. Feel free to ask again with examples, if it is not.
Sra (aka Mme)
In French grammar, verbs with pronouns are known as "verbes pronominaux" or reflexive verbs. These verbs often require the use of pronouns such as "se" or "s'" to reflect back on the subject. However, there are cases where the pronoun "se" is replaced by "s'y."
The pronoun "y" is used to refer to a location or a previously mentioned place. It generally replaces a prepositional phrase introduced by words like "à," "chez," "dans," "sur," or "en." This means that "y" is used when we want to say "there" in English.
When a reflexive verb is combined with "y," it adds the meaning of "going to that place" or "being already there." This implies some movement or direction towards a specific location. On the other hand, when the verb uses the pronoun "se," it only indicates the reflexive action itself without any specific location mentioned.
For example:
- Tu te laves (You wash yourself) - The action of washing oneself is happening, but no specific location is mentioned.
- Tu t'y laves (You wash yourself there) - The action of washing yourself is happening at that particular place.
Here's how you can identify when to use "se" or "s'y" with reflexive verbs:
1. Check if the verb is reflexive (ends with "-se").
2. Identify if there is a prepositional phrase indicating a location.
3. If there is a prepositional phrase, replace it with "y."
It's important to note that not all reflexive verbs will use "s'y." Some verbs only use "se" and do not have an associated location. It's a matter of understanding the specific meaning and context of each verb.
To fully grasp the usage of "y" and how it changes the meaning, it is beneficial to practice with examples and familiarize yourself with the specific reflexive verbs that require "s'y" usage.