Reflexive pronouns are an essential part of English grammar that can often be confusing for language learners. They are used when the subject and the object of a sentence are the same person or thing. Understanding how to use reflexive pronouns correctly can help you speak and write English more accurately and fluently. In this article, we will explore what reflexive pronouns are, how they are used, and common mistakes to avoid.
What Are Reflexive Pronouns?
Reflexive pronouns are words that end in “-self” or “-selves” and are used when the subject and the object of a sentence are the same. The reflexive pronouns in English are:
– Myself
– Yourself
– Himself
– Herself
– Itself
– Ourselves
– Yourselves
– Themselves
For example:
– I taught myself to play the guitar.
– She looked at herself in the mirror.
– They prepared themselves for the exam.
How to Use Reflexive Pronouns
Reflexive pronouns are typically used in three main ways: as the object of a verb, for emphasis, and in idiomatic expressions.
1. As the Object of a Verb
When the subject and the object of a verb are the same, a reflexive pronoun is used as the object. This is perhaps the most common use of reflexive pronouns.
Examples:
– He cut himself while shaving.
– We enjoyed ourselves at the party.
– You should be proud of yourself.
In these sentences, the action of the verb is being done to the same person who is performing the action.
2. For Emphasis
Reflexive pronouns can also be used to emphasize the subject of the sentence. In this case, the reflexive pronoun is not necessary for the sentence to be grammatically correct, but it adds emphasis.
Examples:
– I will do it myself.
– She made the cake herself.
– They completed the project themselves.
Here, the reflexive pronoun is used to stress that the subject did the action alone or without help.
3. In Idiomatic Expressions
Certain idiomatic expressions in English require the use of reflexive pronouns. These expressions are fixed phrases that have a specific meaning.
Examples:
– Behave yourself.
– Help yourself to some food.
– Make yourself at home.
In these expressions, the reflexive pronoun is part of the idiom and cannot be omitted.
Common Mistakes with Reflexive Pronouns
Even advanced English learners can make mistakes with reflexive pronouns. Here are some common errors and how to avoid them.
1. Using Reflexive Pronouns Incorrectly
One common mistake is using a reflexive pronoun when it is not needed. Reflexive pronouns should only be used when the subject and object are the same.
Incorrect: John and myself went to the store.
Correct: John and I went to the store.
In this example, “myself” is incorrectly used as the subject. The correct pronoun is “I.”
2. Using the Wrong Reflexive Pronoun
Another common error is using the wrong form of the reflexive pronoun. Each reflexive pronoun corresponds to a specific subject pronoun.
Incorrect: They should be proud of himself.
Correct: They should be proud of themselves.
In this example, “himself” is incorrect because it does not match the plural subject “they.”
3. Omitting Reflexive Pronouns
Sometimes learners forget to use a reflexive pronoun when it is needed, especially in idiomatic expressions.
Incorrect: Make at home.
Correct: Make yourself at home.
In this example, the reflexive pronoun “yourself” is necessary for the idiomatic expression to be complete.
Exercises to Practice Reflexive Pronouns
To master reflexive pronouns, practice is essential. Here are some exercises to help you become more comfortable with their usage.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the correct reflexive pronoun.
1. I taught ______ to cook.
2. She looked at ______ in the mirror.
3. We enjoyed ______ at the concert.
4. He cut ______ while chopping vegetables.
5. They prepared ______ for the trip.
Exercise 2: Rewrite the Sentences
Rewrite the following sentences to include a reflexive pronoun for emphasis.
1. I will solve the problem.
2. She made the dress.
3. They built the house.
4. You should do the work.
5. He fixed the car.
Exercise 3: Correct the Mistakes
Identify and correct the mistakes in the following sentences.
1. Myself and Sarah went to the park.
2. They should be proud of herself.
3. He taught himself how to play the piano.
4. Make at home.
5. She bought herself a new dress.
Answers to Exercises
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
1. Myself
2. Herself
3. Ourselves
4. Himself
5. Themselves
Exercise 2: Rewrite the Sentences
1. I will solve the problem myself.
2. She made the dress herself.
3. They built the house themselves.
4. You should do the work yourself.
5. He fixed the car himself.
Exercise 3: Correct the Mistakes
1. Sarah and I went to the park.
2. They should be proud of themselves.
3. He taught himself how to play the piano.
4. Make yourself at home.
5. She bought herself a new dress.
Advanced Usage of Reflexive Pronouns
For those who have mastered the basics, there are more advanced uses of reflexive pronouns that can add nuance and complexity to your English.
1. Reflexive Pronouns in Formal Writing
In formal writing, reflexive pronouns can be used to avoid ambiguity and maintain a formal tone.
Example:
– The CEO herself will attend the meeting.
In this sentence, the reflexive pronoun “herself” clarifies that it is indeed the CEO who will attend, adding a level of formality and precision.
2. Reflexive Pronouns in Passive Constructions
Reflexive pronouns can also be used in passive constructions to indicate that the subject is both performing and receiving the action.
Example:
– The book was written by the author herself.
Here, the reflexive pronoun “herself” emphasizes that the author personally wrote the book.
3. Reflexive Pronouns in Compound Subjects
In sentences with compound subjects, reflexive pronouns can be used for emphasis or clarity.
Example:
– My brother and I ourselves painted the house.
The reflexive pronoun “ourselves” emphasizes that both the speaker and the brother painted the house.
Reflexive Pronouns in Different Contexts
Understanding the context in which reflexive pronouns are used can help you use them more effectively in your own speech and writing.
1. Reflexive Pronouns in Literature
Authors often use reflexive pronouns to add depth to their characters and to emphasize particular actions or thoughts.
Example from literature:
– “He saw himself in the reflection, a man changed by time and experience.”
In this example, the reflexive pronoun “himself” is used to emphasize the character’s self-realization.
2. Reflexive Pronouns in Everyday Speech
In everyday speech, reflexive pronouns are often used for emphasis or to convey a sense of personal responsibility.
Example:
– “I’ll handle it myself, thank you.”
In this sentence, “myself” emphasizes the speaker’s intention to handle the situation personally.
Conclusion
Reflexive pronouns are a fundamental part of English grammar that serve multiple functions, from indicating that the subject and object of a verb are the same to adding emphasis and clarity. By understanding how to use reflexive pronouns correctly and practicing with exercises, you can improve your English fluency and accuracy. Remember to avoid common mistakes, such as using the wrong form or omitting the reflexive pronoun when it is needed. With practice and attention to detail, you can master the use of reflexive pronouns in both written and spoken English.