What is a Reflexive Pronoun?
A reflexive pronoun is a pronoun that refers back to the subject of the sentence. Reflexive pronouns are used to emphasize the subject or to indicate that the subject is the recipient of the action.
The nine English reflexive pronouns are:
- myself
- yourself
- himself
- herself
- itself
- ourselves
- yourselves
- themselves
Reflexive pronouns can be used in both the singular and plural forms. For example, “I cut myself” and “We enjoyed ourselves.”
Definition of Reflexive Pronoun
A reflexive pronoun is a type of pronoun used to indicate that the subject of a sentence is also the object, receiving the action. These pronouns are essential when the subject performs an action upon themselves. Reflexive pronouns are formed by adding “-self” (singular) or “-selves” (plural) to personal pronouns, such as “myself,” “yourself,” “himself,” “herself,” “itself,” “ourselves,” “yourselves,” and “themselves.”
Usage of Reflexive Pronouns
- Actions on Oneself: Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject and object of a sentence refer to the same person or thing, indicating an action performed on oneself.
Example: She cut herself while preparing dinner.
- Emphasizing the Subject: Reflexive pronouns can be used for emphasis to reinforce the subject’s role in an action or event.
Example: I myself saw the breathtaking sunset.
- Reflexive Possessive: Reflexive pronouns can also indicate possessive relationships when used in conjunction with possessive adjectives like “my,” “your,” “his,” “her,” “its,” “our,” “your,” and “their.”
Example: John and Jane admired each other’s artwork.
- Intransitive Verbs: Some verbs are intransitive, meaning they don’t require an object. In such cases, reflexive pronouns are used to add meaning to the action.
Example: The cat groomed itself on the windowsill.
- Intensifiers: Reflexive pronouns can function as intensifiers to add emphasis or emphasize a point in a sentence.
Example: The team celebrated their victory by treating themselves to a lavish dinner.
Examples of Reflexive Pronouns in Sentences
- I need to remind myself to buy groceries on the way home.
- The children prepared themselves for the upcoming examination.
- The ambitious entrepreneur built the entire website herself.
- Please restrain yourselves from making any noise during the presentation.
- After a long day at work, he enjoys pampering himself with a hot bath.
- The majestic peacock proudly displayed itself to attract a mate.
- We promised ourselves to work harder and achieve our goals.
- The teacher encouraged the students to challenge themselves with difficult assignments.
- I cut myself while shaving.
- She dressed herself for the party.
- The cat washed itself.
- We enjoyed ourselves at the party.
- They helped themselves to the food.
Usage of Reflexive Pronouns
Reflexive pronouns are used in a variety of ways:
- To emphasize the subject of the sentence. For example, “I did it myself.”
- To indicate that the subject is the recipient of the action. For example, “She dressed herself.”
- To show that the subject is acting for its own benefit. For example, “He bought himself a new car.”
- To add emphasis to a verb. For example, “I hurt myself.”
Tips for Using Reflexive Pronouns
Here are some tips for using reflexive pronouns correctly:
- Use the correct reflexive pronoun for the number and gender of the subject. For example, use “myself” for the singular first person, “yourself” for the singular second person, and “himself” for the singular third person masculine.
- Use reflexive pronouns only when the subject and object of the sentence are the same. For example, you would not say “I cut myself the bread.” In this sentence, the subject (“I”) is not the same as the object (“the bread”).
- Do not use reflexive pronouns when the subject and object of the sentence are different. For example, you would say “I cut myself” instead of “I cut me.” In this sentence, the subject (“I”) is the same as the object (“me”).
Reflexive pronouns are a useful part of the English language. By understanding how to use them correctly, you can improve your writing and make your sentences more concise and effective.
