Learning how to use pronouns effectively is a crucial part of mastering the English language. Pronouns not only streamline our sentences but also help us avoid unnecessary repetition. Among the various types of pronouns, those used for giving emphasis can add a layer of meaning and clarity to your sentences. In this article, we will delve into the different types of emphatic pronouns, how to use them properly, and provide examples to illustrate their use.
Emphatic Pronouns: An Overview
Emphatic pronouns, also known as intensive pronouns, are used to add emphasis to a noun or another pronoun. They often look identical to reflexive pronouns (myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, ourselves, yourselves, themselves) but serve a different purpose.
While reflexive pronouns are used to indicate that the subject and the object of a verb are the same (e.g., “She cut herself”), emphatic pronouns are used to emphasize the subject itself. For example, in the sentence “I did it myself,” the word “myself” emphasizes that the subject “I” performed the action alone or without help.
Placement of Emphatic Pronouns
Emphatic pronouns can be placed in different parts of a sentence depending on what needs to be emphasized. Typically, they are placed immediately after the noun or pronoun they are emphasizing, but they can also be found at the end of a sentence for added effect.
For example:
– “I myself don’t believe in ghosts.”
– “She completed the project herself.”
Using Emphatic Pronouns for Clarity
Emphatic pronouns can be particularly useful in clarifying who exactly is performing an action, especially in sentences where multiple subjects could be involved. This added clarity can prevent misunderstandings and make your communication more precise.
For instance:
– “John and I went to the store, but I myself paid for the groceries.”
In this sentence, the use of “myself” makes it clear that it was “I” who paid for the groceries, not John.
Common Emphatic Pronouns and Their Uses
Let’s explore the various emphatic pronouns in English and how they can be used effectively in sentences.
Myself
The pronoun “myself” is used to emphasize the first-person singular subject “I.”
Examples:
– “I myself will handle the arrangements.”
– “I built this treehouse myself.”
Himself/Herself
“Himself” and “herself” are used to emphasize third-person singular subjects “he” and “she,” respectively.
Examples:
– “He himself admitted to making the mistake.”
– “She herself won the championship.”
Itself
“Itself” is used to emphasize a non-human subject, often an object or an animal.
Examples:
– “The dog itself opened the door.”
– “The company itself is responsible for this mess.”
Ourselves
“Ourselves” is used to emphasize the first-person plural subject “we.”
Examples:
– “We ourselves need to fix this problem.”
– “We organized the event ourselves.”
Themselves
“Themselves” is used to emphasize the third-person plural subject “they.”
Examples:
– “They themselves admitted they were wrong.”
– “The children themselves cleaned up the mess.”
Yourselves
“Yourselves” is used to emphasize the second-person plural subject “you” (when addressing more than one person).
Examples:
– “You yourselves can make a difference.”
– “You should take care of the issue yourselves.”
Emphatic Pronouns vs. Reflexive Pronouns
It’s essential to distinguish between emphatic pronouns and reflexive pronouns, as confusing the two can lead to grammatical errors. Although they look the same, their functions are different.
Reflexive Pronouns
Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject and the object of a sentence are the same. They reflect the action back onto the subject.
Examples:
– “She cut herself while cooking.”
– “I taught myself to play the guitar.”
In these sentences, the action of the verb is performed by the subject on the subject itself.
Emphatic Pronouns
Emphatic pronouns, on the other hand, are used solely for adding emphasis to the subject. They do not change the meaning of the sentence but highlight the subject’s role in the action.
Examples:
– “She herself baked the cake.”
– “I myself couldn’t believe the news.”
In these sentences, the pronouns “herself” and “myself” are not necessary for the grammatical structure but add emphasis to the subject.
Using Emphatic Pronouns for Stylistic Effect
Emphatic pronouns can also be used for stylistic effect, adding a layer of sophistication or drama to your writing. When used sparingly and appropriately, they can enhance your prose or speech.
Creating a Stronger Impact
In formal writing or speeches, emphatic pronouns can create a stronger impact by emphasizing the subject’s involvement or commitment.
Example:
– “The president himself will attend the ceremony.”
This sentence underscores the importance of the president’s attendance.
Adding Dramatic Flair
In creative writing, emphatic pronouns can add a dramatic flair, helping to highlight key moments or actions.
Example:
– “In the end, it was the hero himself who saved the day.”
This usage adds a dramatic touch to the narrative, making the hero’s actions stand out.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Using emphatic pronouns correctly can be challenging, especially for non-native speakers. Here are some common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them.
Incorrect Placement
Placing the emphatic pronoun incorrectly in a sentence can lead to confusion or awkward phrasing. Ensure that the pronoun is placed immediately after the noun or pronoun it is emphasizing.
Incorrect: “I will myself handle the issue.”
Correct: “I myself will handle the issue.”
Unnecessary Use
Using emphatic pronouns when they are not needed can make your sentences cumbersome and awkward. Use them sparingly and only when you need to add emphasis.
Incorrect: “She herself is going to herself bake a cake.”
Correct: “She herself is going to bake a cake.”
Confusing Reflexive and Emphatic Pronouns
As mentioned earlier, confusing reflexive and emphatic pronouns can lead to grammatical errors. Always ensure that the pronoun is serving its intended purpose.
Incorrect: “He hurt himself on purpose.” (This is correct for reflexive use)
Incorrect: “He himself hurt on purpose.” (This is incorrect)
Correct: “He himself hurt himself on purpose.” (Combining both uses correctly)
Practical Exercises
Practice makes perfect. Here are some exercises to help you get comfortable using emphatic pronouns.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the appropriate emphatic pronoun.
1. She __________ designed the entire collection.
2. We __________ saw the movie twice.
3. The CEO __________ made the announcement.
4. You __________ can solve this problem.
5. They __________ built the shelter.
Exercise 2: Sentence Transformation
Rewrite the following sentences to include an emphatic pronoun for added emphasis.
1. John fixed the car.
2. The manager approved the budget.
3. I wrote the report.
4. The children decorated the room.
5. You will finish the project.
Exercise 3: Identify the Pronoun
In the following sentences, identify whether the pronoun is used reflexively or emphatically.
1. She taught herself to play the piano.
2. He himself did all the work.
3. They enjoyed themselves at the party.
4. I myself couldn’t believe it.
5. We organized the event ourselves.
Conclusion
Emphatic pronouns are a powerful tool in the English language, allowing speakers and writers to add emphasis, clarity, and stylistic flair to their sentences. By understanding how to use them correctly, you can enhance your communication skills and make your language more precise and impactful. Remember to practice regularly and pay attention to the placement and necessity of these pronouns to avoid common mistakes. With time and practice, using emphatic pronouns will become second nature, helping you to communicate more effectively and eloquently in English.
