How to use reflexive pronouns correctly, English Grammar

Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject and object of a sentence are the same person or thing. They are formed by adding "-self" or "-selves" to the end of the pronoun, depending on the number and gender of the subject. The most common reflexive pronouns are "myself," "yourself," "himself," "herself," "itself," "ourselves," "yourselves," and "themselves."

How to use reflexive pronouns correctly

Here are some examples of how to use reflexive pronouns correctly:

To emphasize the subject's action or ownership:

• I made myself a cup of tea.
• She cut herself while chopping vegetables.
• They built the house themselves.

After certain verbs that require a reflexive pronoun:

• He always talks to himself when he's working.
• We enjoyed ourselves at the party.
• They congratulated themselves on a job well done.

To refer back to the subject in a sentence:

• The cat groomed itself for hours.
• The team pushed itself to the limit to win the championship.
• The company prides itself on its commitment to sustainability.

It is important to note that reflexive pronouns are not interchangeable with personal pronouns. They can only be used when the subject and object refer to the same person or thing. Additionally, reflexive pronouns should not be used as a substitute for personal pronouns when they are not needed, as this can sound unnatural or overly formal.

In summary, reflexive pronouns are used to indicate that the subject and object of a sentence are the same. They are formed by adding "-self" or "-selves" to the end of the pronoun, and are used for emphasis, after certain verbs, or to refer back to the subject in a sentence.