How does use of the reflexive change the meaning of a causative phrase?

Fred G.C1Kwiziq community member

How does use of the reflexive change the meaning of a causative phrase?

For example, I am wondering why the phrase je me fais faire de nouvelles sandales (I am having new sandals made) requires the "me" - would the meaning be changed if it was omitted?

This question relates to:French lesson "Faire + [infinitive] = to have something done in French (Causative)"

Asked 5 years ago

Like1Answer1

CécileNative French expert teacher in KwiziqCorrect answer

Hi Fred,

If I have understood your question correctly you have to have the 'me' indicating that the sandals are being made for you.

If you say for instance -

Je fais faire de nouvelles sandales pour Odile = I am having new sandals made for Odile

Je me fais couper les cheveux demain = I am having my hair cut tomorrow

Je fais couper les cheveux à Gaston demain = I am having Gaston's hair cut tomorrow

Hope this helps!

Like25 years ago

Fred G. asked:

How does use of the reflexive change the meaning of a causative phrase?

For example, I am wondering why the phrase je me fais faire de nouvelles sandales (I am having new sandals made) requires the "me" - would the meaning be changed if it was omitted?

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