CONTENT
  1. Usage

There are different types of pronouns in the English language. Reflexive pronouns are those that end in -self or -selves. We use them when the subject and object of a verb are the same.

Example

Explanation

I need to figure out how to take proper care of myself.

Myself is a reflexive pronoun.

Here's an overview of reflexive pronouns in English:

Person1st Person2nd Person3rd Person
singular myself yourself himself / herself / itself
plural ourselves yourselves themselves
Person1st Person2nd Person3rd Person
singular myself yourself himself / herself / itself
plural ourselves yourselves themselves

Note: In the second person, we need to indicate whether we're referring to one person or several people.

Example

Explanation

You should be pround of yourself!

Yourself refers to one person (singular).

You should be proud of yourselves!

Yourselves refers to several people (plural).

Usage

Rule 1: We use reflexive pronouns when the subject and the object are the same.

Example

Explanation

She doesn't like to look at herself in the mirror.

The subject and the object in this sentence is the same person.

Rule 2: We use reflexive pronouns to describe that someone did something without anyone else’s help, alone.

Example

Explanation

He made this clay vase himself.

He made this clay vase without anyone else's help.

Rule 3: In English, there are certain verbs are usually followed by a reflective pronoun. Here are some of the most common expressions:

  • behave oneself
  • enjoy oneself
  • express oneself
  • hurt oneself
  • introduce oneself

Note: We do not use reflexive pronouns to indicate a reciprocal relationship. In this case, we use each other instead.

English

English

We can see each other.

Not: We can see ourselves.

Quiz

1/4

Choose the correct reflexive pronoun. I can do it ___.

0

correct answers.