Reflexive Pronouns: Definition, Usage, and Examples

Reflexive pronouns are a fascinating part of English grammar, often used to reflect the action of the subject back upon itself. They help clarify the subject-object relationship and are a crucial component of sentences that emphasise self-directed actions. This article will guide you through their meaning, usage, and examples to help you use them effectively.

Table of Contents

1. What Are Reflexive Pronouns?

2. Definition of a Reflexive Pronoun

3. Examples of Reflexive Pronouns

4. How and When to Use Reflexive Pronouns

5. Common Errors with Reflexive Pronouns

6. Test Your Understanding of Reflexive Pronouns

7. Frequently Asked Questions on Reflexive Pronouns

What Are Reflexive Pronouns?

The term reflexive refers to actions that bend back or reflect on the subject. Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject and object of a sentence are the same. They ensure clarity and emphasise the subject’s role in the action.

Definition of a Reflexive Pronoun

According to the Collins Dictionary, a reflexive pronoun is “a pronoun such as ‘myself’ which refers back to the subject of a sentence or clause.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as “a pronoun referring to the subject of the sentence, clause, or verbal phrase in which it stands.”

Examples of Reflexive Pronouns

Here is a list of personal pronouns and their corresponding reflexive forms:

How and When to Use Reflexive Pronouns

Reflexive pronouns are used in specific contexts to enhance the clarity and emphasis of a sentence. Here are the primary uses:

1. When the Subject and Object Are the Same

Reflexive pronouns indicate that the subject performs the action of the verb upon itself.

• • I taught myself how to code.
  • She rewarded herself for her hard work.

2. To Add Emphasis

Reflexive pronouns emphasise that the action was performed without assistance or entirely by the subject.

• • He fixed the car himself.
  • The CEO herself announced the new policy.

3. As the Object of a Preposition

Reflexive pronouns are used after prepositions when the subject and the object are the same.

• • They were talking among themselves.
  • I am proud of myself.

4. For Clarity in Plural Subjects

Reflexive pronouns prevent ambiguity when referring to plural subjects.

• • The students divided the tasks among themselves.

Common Errors with Reflexive Pronouns

Misusing reflexive pronouns can confuse your audience. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

1. Using Reflexive Pronouns Without a Clear Subject

Incorrect: Myself will handle the situation.
Correct: I will handle the situation myself.

2. Replacing Subject Pronouns with Reflexive Pronouns

Incorrect: Himself went to the market.
Correct: He went to the market himself.

3. Using Reflexive Pronouns for Unnecessary Emphasis

Incorrect: The baby cried itself to sleep.
Correct: The baby cried to sleep.

Examples of Reflexive Pronouns in Sentences

Let’s explore how reflexive pronouns work in various contexts:

Test Your Understanding of Reflexive Pronouns

Fill in the blanks with the correct reflexive pronoun:

1. She looked at ________ in the mirror.

2. We built the treehouse all by ________.

3. The cat hurt ________ while jumping off the fence.

4. Did you do it all by ________?

5. They enjoyed ________ at the party.

Answers

1. Herself

2. Ourselves

3. Itself

4. Yourself

5. Themselves

Frequently Asked Questions on Reflexive Pronouns

Q1: What is a reflexive pronoun?

A reflexive pronoun refers back to the subject of the sentence and indicates that the subject and the object are the same.

Q2: What are the examples of reflexive pronouns?

Reflexive pronouns include myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, ourselves, yourselves, themselves, and oneself.

Q3: How is a reflexive pronoun used?

Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject and object are the same, for emphasis, or as the object of a preposition.

Q4: Can reflexive pronouns be used for emphasis?

Yes, reflexive pronouns like himself, herself, and yourself are used to emphasise that the action was performed independently.

Q5: What is the difference between reflexive and emphatic pronouns?

Reflexive pronouns reflect the subject back upon itself, while emphatic pronouns are used solely to emphasise the subject. For example:

• • Reflexive: He made dinner for himself.
  • Emphatic: He himself made dinner.