Reflexive pronouns play a crucial role in English, often adding clarity, emphasis, and coherence to sentences. However, they can sometimes be confusing for language learners. In this article, we will explore what reflexive pronouns are, how they are used, and provide examples and exercises to solidify your understanding.
What Are Reflexive Pronouns?
Reflexive pronouns are pronouns that refer back to the subject of the sentence. They are used when the subject and the object of a sentence are the same person or thing. In English, reflexive pronouns are formed by adding “-self” or “-selves” to certain personal pronouns.
The reflexive pronouns in English are:
– Myself
– Yourself (singular)
– Himself
– Herself
– Itself
– Ourselves
– Yourselves (plural)
– Themselves
Examples of Reflexive Pronouns
1. I taught myself to play the guitar.
2. She looked at herself in the mirror.
3. The cat cleaned itself.
4. We prepared ourselves for the journey.
5. They introduced themselves at the meeting.
When to Use Reflexive Pronouns
Reflexive pronouns are used in several specific situations, including:
1. When the Subject and the Object Are the Same
Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject and the object of the sentence refer to the same entity.
Example:
– He blamed himself for the mistake.
– She taught herself French.
2. For Emphasis
Reflexive pronouns can be used for emphasis to show that the subject did the action alone or without any help.
Example:
– I did it myself.
– The manager will see you himself.
3. With Certain Verbs
Certain verbs are often followed by reflexive pronouns. These verbs include “enjoy,” “kill,” “hurt,” “teach,” “introduce,” and “apply.”
Example:
– She enjoyed herself at the party.
– He hurt himself while playing football.
4. In Prepositional Phrases
Reflexive pronouns can be used after prepositions to provide more detail about the action.
Example:
– She was talking to herself.
– He made a cup of tea for himself.
Common Mistakes with Reflexive Pronouns
Even though reflexive pronouns are straightforward, learners often make mistakes with them. Here are some common errors and how to avoid them:
1. Using a Reflexive Pronoun When It’s Not Needed
Incorrect: John and myself went to the store.
Correct: John and I went to the store.
Explanation: “Myself” is not needed here because “I” is the subject, not the object.
2. Using the Wrong Reflexive Pronoun
Incorrect: She bought a gift for hisself.
Correct: She bought a gift for himself.
Explanation: The correct reflexive pronoun for “he” is “himself,” not “hisself.”
3. Forgetting to Use a Reflexive Pronoun
Incorrect: She looked at her in the mirror.
Correct: She looked at herself in the mirror.
Explanation: The reflexive pronoun “herself” is necessary because the subject and object are the same.
Exercises to Practice Reflexive Pronouns
To master reflexive pronouns, it’s important to practice. Here are some exercises to help you get comfortable using them.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the correct reflexive pronoun:
1. I looked at _______ in the mirror.
2. He cut _______ while chopping vegetables.
3. They enjoyed _______ at the concert.
4. We taught _______ how to code.
5. She introduced _______ to the new neighbors.
Answers:
1. myself
2. himself
3. themselves
4. ourselves
5. herself
Exercise 2: Correct the Sentences
Correct the following sentences by using the appropriate reflexive pronoun:
1. She poured a glass of water for hisself.
2. The children can dress theirselves.
3. I will handle this problem by myselfs.
4. He blames hisself for the accident.
5. We enjoyed ourself at the picnic.
Answers:
1. She poured a glass of water for herself.
2. The children can dress themselves.
3. I will handle this problem by myself.
4. He blames himself for the accident.
5. We enjoyed ourselves at the picnic.
Reflexive Pronouns in Idiomatic Expressions
Reflexive pronouns are also commonly used in idiomatic expressions. Here are some examples:
1. Keep to Yourself
Meaning: To avoid interacting with others.
Example: He usually keeps to himself.
2. By Yourself
Meaning: Alone; without help.
Example: Can you finish the project by yourself?
3. Help Yourself
Meaning: To take something without asking.
Example: Please help yourself to the snacks.
4. Make Yourself at Home
Meaning: To behave as if you are in your own home.
Example: Please make yourself at home.
Reflexive Pronouns and Intensive Pronouns
It’s worth noting that reflexive pronouns can also function as intensive pronouns. Intensive pronouns are used to emphasize the noun or pronoun that they are referring to. They are placed immediately after the noun or pronoun they emphasize.
Example:
– The CEO himself approved the project.
– The team leader herself will handle the task.
In these examples, “himself” and “herself” are used to emphasize the CEO and the team leader, respectively.
Reflexive Pronouns in Different Tenses
Reflexive pronouns can be used in various tenses to indicate actions that reflect back on the subject. Here are some examples in different tenses:
Present Simple
– I often talk to myself when I’m alone.
– He usually prepares breakfast for himself.
Past Simple
– She introduced herself to the new team members.
– They enjoyed themselves at the party last night.
Future Simple
– I will teach myself how to play the piano.
– He will find himself a new job.
Present Continuous
– I am teaching myself Spanish.
– She is looking at herself in the mirror.
Past Continuous
– He was blaming himself for the mistake.
– They were preparing themselves for the competition.
Future Continuous
– I will be talking to myself while working.
– She will be enjoying herself at the concert.
Advanced Usage of Reflexive Pronouns
For advanced learners, understanding the nuanced use of reflexive pronouns can add sophistication to your language skills.
1. Reciprocal Actions
While reflexive pronouns indicate actions directed at the subject itself, reciprocal actions involve two or more subjects acting on each other. Reflexive pronouns are not used for reciprocal actions; instead, phrases like “each other” or “one another” are used.
Example:
– They hugged each other.
– The students helped one another.
2. Reflexive Pronouns in Passive Voice
Reflexive pronouns can sometimes appear in passive constructions to indicate the agent performing the action.
Example:
– The homework was completed by the students themselves.
3. Reflexive Pronouns with Gerunds
Reflexive pronouns can be used with gerunds to indicate that the subject is performing the action of the gerund on itself.
Example:
– She prides herself on cooking well.
– He surprised himself by passing the exam.
Conclusion
Reflexive pronouns are an essential part of the English language, serving to clarify and emphasize actions directed back at the subject. By understanding their usage, avoiding common mistakes, and practicing regularly, you can master reflexive pronouns and enhance your English proficiency.
Remember, reflexive pronouns are not just about adding “-self” or “-selves” to personal pronouns; they are about ensuring that your sentences are clear, precise, and meaningful. So, take the time to practice and incorporate them into your daily language use. Happy learning!
