Intensive Pronoun: Definition, Examples & Rules | English Grammar

Welcome! In this lesson, you'll learn everything you need to know about Intensive Pronouns in English grammar. We'll cover what they are, why they matter, how to use them, and how to avoid common mistakes. You'll also find real-life examples, a quick quiz, and pro tips to help you master this essential grammar topic.

What is an Intensive Pronoun?

Intensive Pronoun Definition: An Intensive Pronoun is a word that emphasizes or intensifies the noun or pronoun it refers to. Intensive pronouns end in "-self" or "-selves" and are used to add emphasis to a statement.

Why are Intensive Pronouns Important? They help us add emphasis and clarity to our statements, making our communication more expressive and impactful when we want to highlight someone or something.

Function in Grammar

Intensive pronouns are used to emphasize a noun or pronoun in a sentence. They can be removed without changing the basic meaning of the sentence, but they add emphasis and intensity. For example:

• Without Intensive Pronoun: I made this cake.
• With Intensive Pronoun: I myself made this cake.

Intensive Pronoun vs Reflexive Pronoun: Intensive pronouns emphasize a noun/pronoun but can be removed, while reflexive pronouns are necessary for the sentence to make sense and show that the subject and object are the same.

Examples of Intensive Pronouns in Sentences

• I myself will solve this problem.
• The CEO herself approved the project.
• We ourselves built this garden.
• You yourself know what's right.
• He himself wrote the entire report.
• The children themselves cleaned their room.
• She herself designed the website.
• The team themselves organized the event.
• You yourselves can make the decision.
• The machine itself is working perfectly.
• I myself witnessed the incident.
• The teacher herself graded the papers.
• They themselves admitted their mistake.
• The president himself attended the ceremony.
• We ourselves are responsible for this.

Notice how each intensive pronoun emphasizes the person or thing it refers to.

Intensive vs Reflexive Pronouns

Special Rules and Notes

• Position: Intensive pronouns usually appear right after the noun or pronoun they emphasize.
• Removability: Intensive pronouns can be removed without changing the basic meaning of the sentence.
• Emphasis: They add intensity and emphasis to the person or thing they refer to.
• End Position: They can also appear at the end of a sentence for additional emphasis: "I will do it myself."
• Subject Agreement: The intensive pronoun must agree with the person, number, and gender of the noun/pronoun it emphasizes.
• Formal vs Informal: Intensive pronouns are used in both formal and informal contexts.
• Reflexive Confusion: Don't confuse with reflexive pronouns, which are necessary for the sentence meaning.
• Overuse: Avoid overusing intensive pronouns as they can make writing sound repetitive.

Quick Quiz: Spot the Intensive Pronoun!

Which words are intensive pronouns in these sentences?

• I myself will handle this situation.
• The president himself made the announcement.
• We ourselves built this house.
• She herself designed the website.
• You yourself know what's right.
• They themselves admitted their mistake.
• The machine itself is working perfectly.
• You yourselves can make the decision.

Answers: myself, himself, ourselves, herself, yourself, themselves, itself, yourselves

Conclusion

Understanding intensive pronouns is key to adding emphasis and clarity to your English communication. These pronouns help us highlight specific people or things and make our statements more impactful. Always remember that intensive pronouns can be removed without changing the sentence meaning - they're used for emphasis, not necessity. Pay attention to the differences between intensive and reflexive pronouns, and make sure they agree with the person, number, and gender of the noun or pronoun they emphasize. Practice using them appropriately in your writing and speech. The more you practice, the more naturally you'll be able to add emphasis to your communication!