Reflexive Pronouns: How to use it

Introduction

Reflexive pronouns are a crucial component of English grammar that often confound learners. While they may appear complex at first glance, understanding and using them correctly is essential for clear and effective communication. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of reflexive pronouns, providing you with the knowledge and examples you need to use them confidently in your writing and speech.

What Are Reflexive Pronouns?

Reflexive pronouns are a unique type of pronoun used to indicate that the subject of a sentence is also the object of the action. In other words, they reflect the action back onto the subject. Reflexive pronouns always end in “-self” or “-selves” and are used when the subject and the object of a sentence are the same.

Here are the reflexive pronouns in English:

• Myself
• Yourself
• Himself
• Herself
• Itself
• Ourselves
• Yourselves
• Themselves

How to Use Reflexive Pronouns

1. Reflexive Actions: Reflexive pronouns are commonly used when an action reflects back on the subject. For example:
   • She washed herself before the party.
   • He talks to himself when he’s nervous.
2. Emphasizing the Subject: Reflexive pronouns can also be used to emphasize the subject’s role in the action:
   • I will do the assignment myself.
   • They built the treehouse themselves.
3. After Certain Prepositions: Reflexive pronouns are used after prepositions when the object of the preposition is the same as the subject:
   • She did it all by herself.
   • He made the cake for us himself.

Common Mistakes with Reflexive Pronouns

Understanding how to use reflexive pronouns correctly can help you avoid common mistakes:

1. Incorrect Use with Non-Reflexive Verbs: Avoid using reflexive pronouns with non-reflexive verbs. For instance, saying “He enjoyed himself at the concert” is incorrect because “enjoy” is not a reflexive action.
2. Confusing “Myself” and “Me”: Many people incorrectly use “myself” in place of “me” for emphasis. For example, “Send the report to Bob or myself.” The correct usage here is “Send the report to Bob or me.”
3. Avoiding Repetition: Reflexive pronouns are not always necessary. If it’s clear who the subject is, you can often omit the reflexive pronoun:
   • Correct: She washed before the party.
   • Incorrect: She washed herself before the party.

Reflexive Pronouns in Different Tenses

Reflexive pronouns are used in all tenses of English. Here are some examples in different tenses:

• Present: She washes herself daily.
• Past: He hurt himself during the game.
• Future: They will prepare themselves for the challenge.

Read: Pronoun Examples in Sentences

Read : 65 Sentences with Reflexive Pronouns

Conclusion

Reflexive pronouns play a significant role in English grammar, enabling us to express actions that reflect back on the subject. By mastering their usage, you can enhance the clarity and precision of your writing and speech. Remember the key points we’ve covered in this guide, and practice using reflexive pronouns to become a more proficient communicator. With time and practice, you’ll find that using reflexive pronouns correctly becomes second nature, allowing you to express yourself with confidence.