What is a Reflexive Pronoun?

A reflexive pronoun, such as himself, is a word used to refer to the same person or thing mentioned earlier in the sentence. Referring back to the subject, reflexive pronouns generally have the same subject.

The Role of Reflexive Pronouns

Reflexive pronouns are indispensable in English grammar. They are particularly useful when the subject of a sentence also serves as the receiver of the action described in the sentence.

Himself: A Specific Example of a Reflexive Pronoun

Himself is a reflexive pronoun that corresponds to the masculine form of the personal pronoun he. It is used in the following ways:

As an object that refers to the same male who is the subject of the sentence or who has been mentioned somewhere earlier in the sentence:

Example: He had prepared himself for this important meeting. In this sentence, the subject he is performing the action, and himself refers back to the same person.

Usage of Reflexive Pronouns

There are several scenarios where reflexive pronouns are used effectively:

Reflexive Reflex

Also known as a reflexive reflex, this is when a reflexive pronoun modifies another reflexive pronoun. While uncommon, it can be used for emphasis in certain constructions in both written and spoken English.

Reciprocity

Reflexive pronouns can denote mutual actions or shared experiences. However, they do not necessarily imply mutual action, just shared experience or consideration.

Emphasis or Intentional Omission of Object

In some cases, reflexive pronouns are used simply for emphasis, even if they do not necessitate a direct object. They can also be used when the object of the action is already implied and might be considered redundant to state explicitly.

Examples of Reflexive Pronoun Usage

Here are a few examples to illustrate these points:

Everybody loved themselves on New Year’s Day. (Everyone loved themselves individually) We hurt ourselves in the argument. (The argument caused damage to each of us) She cut herself while slicing the cake. (The action resulted in injury to herself)

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Reflexive Pronouns

It is crucial to use reflexive pronouns correctly to maintain grammatical accuracy. Here are a few common mistakes to be mindful of:

Overuse or Underuse

Using too many reflexive pronouns can make writing sound unnatural. Conversely, not using them when they are appropriate can result in ungrammatical sentences.

Misapplication as Intensive Pronouns

A common issue is the misuse of reflexive pronouns as intensive pronouns. Intensive pronouns, like him/herself, are used for emphasis, whereas reflexive pronouns are always objects.

End of Sentence Misplacement

Reflexive pronouns should typically follow the verb they modify. Placing them incorrectly can make the sentence confusing.

Conclusion

Reflexive pronouns, including himself, play a vital role in English grammar. By understanding their function and usage, you can enhance the clarity and effectiveness of your writing. Whether you are preparing for an exam or simply looking to improve your language skills, mastering the use of reflexive pronouns can greatly benefit your communication.