What is a Reflexive Pronoun?
A reflexive pronoun is a pronoun used when the subject and the object of a sentence are the same person or thing. They end in -self (for singular subjects) or -selves (for plural subjects). These pronouns are essential for clarity and correct grammar.
Contents
Key Concepts
- Subject-Object Agreement: The pronoun must refer directly back to the subject.
- Form: Singular forms end in -self (e.g., myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself). Plural forms end in -selves (e.g., ourselves, yourselves, themselves).
- Intensive vs. Reflexive: Reflexive pronouns are essential to the sentence’s meaning; intensive pronouns add emphasis.
Deep Dive into Usage
Reflexive pronouns are used in several grammatical contexts:
- As Objects: When the subject performs an action on itself. Example: “She hurt herself.”
- With Prepositions: After prepositions when referring back to the subject. Example: “He bought a gift for himself.”
- Idiomatic Expressions: Certain phrases inherently use reflexive pronouns. Example: “Make yourself at home.”
Applications
Understanding reflexive pronouns is crucial for:
- Clear Communication: Ensuring the reader understands who or what is affected by the action.
- Avoiding Ambiguity: Preventing confusion about the recipient of an action.
- Formal Writing: Maintaining grammatical correctness in academic and professional contexts.
Challenges & Misconceptions
Common errors include:
- Using reflexive pronouns for emphasis when they are not needed (intensive use).
- Using non-standard forms like “hisself” or “theirselves.”
- Confusing reflexive pronouns with object pronouns.
FAQs
Q: When do I use ‘-self’ versus ‘-selves’?
Use -self for singular subjects (I, you, he, she, it) and -selves for plural subjects (we, you, they).
Q: Can a reflexive pronoun be the subject of a sentence?
No, reflexive pronouns can never be the subject of a sentence. They always refer back to the subject.