Understanding how to use reflexive pronouns correctly is essential for mastering English. Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject and the object of a sentence are the same person or thing. They are a bit tricky for learners but are incredibly useful for conveying specific meanings and ensuring clarity. Let’s dive deep into the world of reflexive pronouns and learn how to use them effectively.
What Are Reflexive Pronouns?
Reflexive pronouns are words that end in “-self” or “-selves” and refer back to the subject of the sentence. The list of reflexive pronouns in English includes:
– Myself
– Yourself (singular)
– Himself
– Herself
– Itself
– Ourselves
– Yourselves (plural)
– Themselves
These pronouns are used when the subject and the object of a sentence are the same, meaning the action is performed on the subject by the subject.
Usage of Reflexive Pronouns
Reflexive pronouns can be used in several different contexts. Here are the main ways they are employed in English:
1. To Show Actions That Affect the Subject
The primary use of reflexive pronouns is to show that the subject of the sentence is performing an action on itself. For example:
– “I cut myself while chopping vegetables.”
– “She taught herself to play the piano.”
– “The cat cleaned itself after the meal.”
In these sentences, the actions of cutting, teaching, and cleaning are done by the subjects to themselves.
2. For Emphasis
Sometimes reflexive pronouns are used for emphasis, to stress that the subject did the action without any help. For example:
– “I baked this cake myself.”
– “He fixed the car himself.”
– “We decorated the house ourselves.”
In these cases, the reflexive pronoun emphasizes the independence or self-sufficiency of the subject.
3. In Idiomatic Expressions
Reflexive pronouns are also found in various idiomatic expressions, such as:
– “Behave yourself!”
– “She found herself in a difficult situation.”
– “He prides himself on his punctuality.”
These expressions use reflexive pronouns in ways that are not always literally about the subject performing an action on itself but have become standard parts of English usage.
Common Mistakes with Reflexive Pronouns
Learning to use reflexive pronouns correctly can be challenging, and there are a few common mistakes that learners often make. Here’s what to watch out for:
1. Using Reflexive Pronouns Incorrectly as Subjects
Reflexive pronouns should not be used as the subject of a sentence. For instance, it is incorrect to say:
– “Myself went to the store.”
Instead, you should say:
– “I went to the store.”
2. Using Reflexive Pronouns Incorrectly as Objects
Sometimes learners mistakenly use reflexive pronouns when they are not needed. For example, it is incorrect to say:
– “He gave the book to myself.”
The correct sentence is:
– “He gave the book to me.”
3. Confusing Reflexive Pronouns with Intensive Pronouns
Intensive pronouns look exactly like reflexive pronouns but are used only for emphasis and can be removed from the sentence without changing the meaning. For instance:
– “I myself don’t believe it.”
Here, “myself” is an intensive pronoun used for emphasis. If you remove it, the sentence still makes sense: “I don’t believe it.”
Exercises for Practicing Reflexive Pronouns
To master reflexive pronouns, practice is key. Here are some exercises to help you get comfortable using them:
1. Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following sentences with the correct reflexive pronoun:
1. She looked at _______ in the mirror.
2. The children can dress _______ now.
3. I taught _______ how to cook.
4. We enjoyed _______ at the party.
5. Did you hurt _______ when you fell?
2. Correct the Sentences
Find the mistakes in these sentences and correct them:
1. John and myself went to the movies.
2. She gave the present to herself.
3. You should be proud of yourselves.
4. They blame themself for the mistake.
5. Myself will handle the situation.
3. Create Sentences
Write a sentence using each of the reflexive pronouns:
1. Myself
2. Yourself
3. Himself
4. Herself
5. Itself
6. Ourselves
7. Yourselves
8. Themselves
Advanced Usage and Nuances
For those who have mastered the basic use of reflexive pronouns, there are more advanced aspects and nuances to explore.
1. Reflexive Pronouns in Formal and Informal Contexts
In formal writing, reflexive pronouns are often used correctly and as intended. However, in informal speech, native speakers sometimes use them incorrectly for emphasis or politeness. For example:
– “If you have any questions, please contact myself.”
While technically incorrect, this usage is becoming more common in informal and even some formal contexts.
2. Reflexive Pronouns in Different Varieties of English
Different varieties of English may have slight variations in the use of reflexive pronouns. For instance, in some dialects, people might say:
– “Y’all should enjoy yourselves.”
This usage is more common in Southern American English. Understanding these nuances can help in comprehending regional differences and informal speech patterns.
3. Reflexive Pronouns in Passive Voice
Reflexive pronouns can also appear in sentences using the passive voice. For example:
– “The award was given to herself by the committee.”
In this sentence, the passive construction is used to emphasize the recipient of the action.
Conclusion
Reflexive pronouns are an important part of English grammar that help clarify who is performing an action and who is receiving it. They are used to show actions that affect the subject, add emphasis, and form part of many idiomatic expressions. While they can be tricky to master, understanding their proper usage and practicing through exercises can significantly improve your fluency and clarity in English.
Remember, reflexive pronouns should not be used as subjects, and it’s crucial to distinguish them from intensive pronouns. With consistent practice, you’ll be able to use reflexive pronouns naturally and correctly in both written and spoken English.
Keep practicing, and soon using reflexive pronouns will become second nature to you!