Understanding Reflexive Pronouns

Have you ever gazed into a mirror and seen your face looking back at you? Reflexive pronouns do the same thing - they "reflect" the subject of a sentence. Words such as myself, herself, and themselves are examples of reflexive pronouns, and they serve a particular function in English grammar. 

Enhance Grammar, Vocabulary & Writing Skills

For parents and students in grades 1-12, understanding what reflexive pronouns are can make writing clearer and communication more effective. This article explains reflexive pronouns, their functions, and examples, and touches on the difference between reflexive and relative pronouns.

What are Reflexive Pronouns?

A reflexive pronoun is a pronoun that is used when the subject and the object of a sentence are the same individual or entity. Reflexive pronouns always have the suffix -self (singular) or -selves (plural).

Examples of Reflexive Pronouns

The English reflexive pronouns are nine in total:

• Singular: myself, yourselves, himself, herself, itself, oneself
• Plural: ourselves, yourselves, themselves

Reflexive Pronoun Definition

Reflexive pronouns are employed to express that the subject is acting on itself. 

For instance:

She taught herself how to play the piano.

In this sentence, "herself" echoes "she," such that she becomes the object as well as subject of the act.

Uses of Reflexive Pronouns

Reflexive pronouns serve several purposes in sentences:

How Do Reflexive Pronouns Work?

Reflexive pronouns are used in place of object pronouns. They are used with transitive verbs - those verbs requiring an object - and reflect the subject onto itself.

Examples

• Direct Object:

• He congratulated himself on winning the award.

• Indirect Object:

• She bought herself a new book.

• After Prepositions:

• They went by themselves to explore the park.

Common Mistakes with Reflexive Pronouns

Even English native speakers sometimes make errors with reflexive pronouns. Following are common errors to be omitted:

Instead of Using Subject/Object Pronouns, Use Reflexive Pronouns

• Incorrect: Andrew and I went to the store.
• Correct: Andrew and I went to the store.

Inserting Excessive Reflexive Pronouns

• Incorrect: He relaxed himself after work.
• Correct: He relaxed after work.

Fun Fact: Did You Know

The word "reflexive" comes from the Latin word "reflexivus," which is "to reflect." Think of reflexive pronouns as mirrors - they reflect back on the subject!

Difference Between Reflexive and Relative Pronouns

While reflexive pronouns refer backward to the subject, relative pronouns connect phrases or clauses in a sentence.

Examples of Relative Pronouns:

• Who: Applied to individuals (The contest winner who is my friend.)
• Which: Now used to describe things (The book which I read was interesting.)
• That: Refers to objects or people (The car that had broken down was being repaired.)

How Can 98thPercentile's English Course Assist Students?

At 98thPercentile, we understand it is difficult to study grammar rules like reflexive pronouns alone. Our English curriculum offers:

• Interactive lessons that illustrate grammar rules using examples from real life.
• Recreational activities such as sentence-building to facilitate learning.
• Individualised instruction tailored to that individual's own rate.
• Expert instructors who offer feedback and guidance.

With the assistance of 98thPercentile's English course, the students are able to become better writers by having the confidence to use grammar!

Reflexive pronouns must be learned in order to enhance one's grammar and writing. Understanding when to use them as direct objects, indirect objects, or intensifiers will enable students to express themselves better in written and spoken English. For parents seeking innovative ways to assist their child's language acquisition, why not send them to 98thPercentile's English classes, where terms like reflexive pronouns become a reality through interactive lessons! Let's collaborate to help your child master grammar with confidence!

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FAQs

Q1: What are reflexive pronouns?
Ans: Reflexive pronouns are -self or -selves words (like myself, themselves) used when object and subject of a sentence are the same person or thing.

Q2: Reflexive pronouns are unlike relative pronouns in what way?
Ans: Reflexive pronouns refer back to the subject (i.e., herself), while relative pronouns connect clauses (i.e., which).

Q3: Are reflexive pronouns used as intensifiers?
Ans: Yes! Reflexive pronouns can emphasize actions (e.g., I built this house myself).

Q4: Give an example of the use of a reflexive pronoun following a preposition.
Ans: Example: He completed the project alone.

Q5: What are the pitfalls with reflexive pronouns?

Ans: Using them improperly or combining subject/object pronouns (for instance, "Andrew and myself" instead of "Andrew and I").

Related Articles

1. What is a Reflexive Pronoun?

2. What are Reciprocal Pronouns and List of Pronouns?

3. What are Intensive Pronouns?

4. What are Subjective Pronouns?

5. Relative Pronouns: A Guide to Enhancing Your Writing