Reflexive Pronoun

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.

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.