Reflexive Pronouns

Reflexive pronouns are pronouns that end in “-self” or “-selves” and are used when the subject and the object of the sentence are the same. They refle

Reflexive Pronouns: A Comprehensive Guide

Reflexive pronouns are an essential part of English grammar that refer back to the subject of the sentence, emphasizing that the action is performed by the subject upon itself. They are useful for adding emphasis and clarity to sentences. This detailed guide will explore the concept of reflexive pronouns, their types, usage, examples, and common mistakes to avoid.

What Are Reflexive Pronouns?

Definition

Reflexive pronouns are pronouns that end in “-self” or “-selves” and are used when the subject and the object of the sentence are the same. They reflect the action back onto the subject.

Examples:

• Singular: myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself
• Plural: ourselves, yourselves, themselves

Types of Reflexive Pronouns

1. Singular Reflexive Pronouns

• Myself: Refers back to the speaker.
  • Example: I taught myself to play the guitar.
• Yourself: Refers to the person being spoken to.
  • Example: Did you enjoy yourself at the party?
• Himself: Refers to a male person or animal.
  • Example: He made himself a sandwich.
• Herself: Refers to a female person or animal.
  • Example: She looked at herself in the mirror.
• Itself: Refers to a non-human or inanimate object.
  • Example: The cat cleaned itself.

2. Plural Reflexive Pronouns

• Ourselves: Refers back to the speaker and others.
  • Example: We prepared ourselves for the trip.
• Yourselves: Refers to the people being spoken to.
  • Example: You should take care of yourselves.
• Themselves: Refers to others.
  • Example: They introduced themselves.

Usage of Reflexive Pronouns

Emphasizing the Subject

Reflexive pronouns can be used to emphasize the subject of the sentence.

• Example: The CEO himself presented the award.

Direct Object

Reflexive pronouns can be used as the direct object of a verb.

• Example: She taught herself French.

Indirect Object

Reflexive pronouns can be used as the indirect object of a verb.

• Example: I bought myself a new laptop.

Object of a Preposition

Reflexive pronouns can be used as the object of a preposition.

• Example: They kept the secret to themselves.

Examples in Sentences

Singular Reflexive Pronouns

• I made myself a cup of coffee.
• Did you hurt yourself?
• He prides himself on his cooking skills.
• She rewarded herself with a treat.
• The robot fixed itself.

Plural Reflexive Pronouns

• We enjoyed ourselves at the concert.
• You should treat yourselves to a vacation.
• They blame themselves for the mistake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Reflexive Pronouns Incorrectly

Reflexive pronouns should only be used when the subject and the object are the same.

• Incorrect: John and myself went to the store.
• Correct: John and I went to the store.

2. Overusing Reflexive Pronouns

Avoid using reflexive pronouns unnecessarily.

• Incorrect: She herself told me the news.
• Correct: She told me the news.

3. Misplacing Reflexive Pronouns

Place reflexive pronouns correctly to maintain sentence clarity.

• Incorrect: She looked at in the mirror herself.
• Correct: She looked at herself in the mirror.

Tips for Correct Usage

1. Ensure Pronoun-Antecedent Agreement

Make sure the reflexive pronoun matches the subject in number and gender.

• Example: Each student should prepare himself or herself.

2. Use Reflexive Pronouns for Emphasis Sparingly

Use reflexive pronouns for emphasis only when necessary.

• Example: The president himself announced the decision.

3. Familiarize Yourself with Reflexive Pronouns

Learn and practice the different reflexive pronouns to use them correctly.

Conclusion

Reflexive pronouns are a valuable tool in English grammar, allowing us to refer back to the subject of a sentence and emphasize actions performed by the subject upon itself. Understanding how to use reflexive pronouns correctly is crucial for grammatical accuracy and clarity. By mastering singular and plural reflexive pronouns, you can enhance your writing and speaking skills, ensuring your sentences are precise and correct. Whether using reflexive pronouns for emphasis or as objects, they help streamline communication and make our language more expressive and functional.