sentir vs se sentir
What is the difference between the French verbs “sentir” and “se sentir”? They both mean “to feel” in English, although “sentir” can also mean “to smell.” So how are they different from each other and how should each one be used?
- “Sentir”:
- This verb means “to feel” or “to smell” in English.
- It’s used to talk about physical sensations or perceptions, like smelling, tasting, or touching something.
- For example: “Je sens les fleurs” (I smell the flowers), or “Elle sent la pluie” (She feels the rain).
- “Se sentir”:
- This one means “to feel” in the sense of emotions or states of being.
- It’s used when talking about how someone feels emotionally or physically.
- For example: “Je me sens heureux” (I feel happy), or “Il se sent fatigué” (He feels tired).
- Notice the reflexive pronoun “se” before the verb. That’s the key difference between “sentir” and “se sentir”. “Se sentir” is reflexive, meaning it refers back to the subject.
In short, “sentir” is for physical sensations like smell or touch, while “se sentir” is for emotions and states of being. Remembering this difference will help you use these verbs correctly in French!
