Reflexive Pronouns

Reflexive pronouns are an essential component of English grammar. They are used to indicate that the subject of the sentence is also the object of the action. In this guide, we’ll explore what reflexive pronouns are, how they are used, when to use them, and provide examples and a mini quiz to test your understanding.

What are Reflexive Pronouns?

Reflexive pronouns are pronouns that end in “-self” or “-selves” and are used when the subject and the object of a sentence are the same. They emphasize that the action of the verb returns to the subject.

List of Reflexive Pronouns

• myself
• yourself (singular)
• himself
• herself
• itself
• ourselves
• yourselves (plural)
• themselves

How to Use Reflexive Pronouns

Reflexive pronouns are used to indicate that the subject performs an action on itself. They can also be used for emphasis or to clarify that the action is done alone.

To Indicate an Action Performed on Oneself

Reflexive pronouns show that the subject and object are the same.

Examples:

• “She taught herself to play the piano.”
• “He cut himself while shaving.”

For Emphasis

They can emphasize that someone did something alone or without help.

Examples:

• “I did it myself.”
• “They completed the project themselves.”

To Clarify the Subject

Reflexive pronouns clarify who is performing the action in cases where the meaning might be ambiguous.

Examples:

• “She made herself a sandwich.” (It’s clear that she made the sandwich for herself.)
• “The cat licked itself.” (It’s clear that the cat is the one licking.)

When to Use Reflexive Pronouns

To Avoid Confusion

Use reflexive pronouns to make it clear who is performing the action.

Example:

• “He prepared himself for the interview.” (This clarifies that he is the one preparing.)

To Emphasize Personal Action

Use them to emphasize that someone did something personally or alone.

Example:

• “I’ll handle the situation myself.”

Examples of Reflexive Pronouns in Sentences

1. “I taught myself French.”
2. “She looked at herself in the mirror.”
3. “The dog entertained itself with a toy.”
4. “We enjoyed ourselves at the party.”
5. “Did you hurt yourself?”
6. “They fixed the car themselves.”
7. “He found himself in a difficult situation.”
8. “She prides herself on her achievements.”
9. “The computer shut itself down.”
10. “You should take care of yourselves.”

Reflexive Pronoun Exercises

1. I made this cake ________ (myself/himself).
2. She bought ________ (herself/itself) a new dress.
3. They enjoyed ________ (themselves/ourselves) at the concert.
4. He reminded ________ (himself/myself) to call his friend.
5. Did you do your homework by ________ (myself/yourself)?
6. The cat cleans ________ (itself/herself) every day.
7. We taught ________ (ourselves/themselves) to play the guitar.
8. The children prepared ________ (themselves/ourselves) for the exam.
9. You should trust ________ (yourself/themselves) more.
10. She finds ________ (himself/herself) thinking about the past often.

Answers:

1. myself
2. herself
3. themselves
4. himself
5. yourself
6. itself
7. ourselves
8. themselves
9. yourself
10. herself

Understanding and using reflexive pronouns correctly can greatly enhance your clarity and precision in communication. Use this guide to practice and master reflexive pronouns in your sentences!