Reflexive Pronoun: Definition, Examples & Rules | English Grammar
Last Updated: 01 Jul, 2025
Welcome! In this lesson, you'll learn everything you need to know about Reflexive Pronouns in English grammar. We'll cover what they are, 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 a Reflexive Pronoun?
Reflexive Pronoun Definition: A reflexive pronoun is a pronoun that refers back to the subject of the sentence. Reflexive pronouns end in -self (singular) or -selves (plural), such as myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, ourselves, yourselves, themselves.
Why are Reflexive Pronouns Important? They help us show that the subject and the object of a verb are the same person or thing, making our sentences clear and precise.
Function in Grammar
Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject and the object of a verb are the same person or thing. They are also used for emphasis. For example:
- I made this cake myself.
- She taught herself to play the piano.
- They enjoyed themselves at the party.
Reflexive Pronoun vs Personal Pronoun: Reflexive pronouns refer back to the subject, while personal pronouns replace nouns.
Reflexive Pronouns Table
Subject Pronoun | Reflexive Pronoun | Example |
---|---|---|
I | myself | I did it myself. |
you (singular) | yourself | Did you make it yourself? |
he | himself | He hurt himself. |
she | herself | She prepared herself for the test. |
it | itself | The cat cleaned itself. |
we | ourselves | We built the house ourselves. |
you (plural) | yourselves | You should help yourselves. |
they | themselves | They introduced themselves. |
Reflexive pronouns always refer back to the subject of the sentence.
Reflexive Pronoun Challenge!
Can you identify the reflexive pronouns in these sentences?
- She made the dress herself.
- We enjoyed ourselves at the fair.
- He hurt himself while playing.
Show Answers
- herself
- ourselves
- himself
Examples of Reflexive Pronouns in Sentences
- I made this cake myself.
- She taught herself to play the piano.
- They enjoyed themselves at the party.
- He hurt himself while running.
- The cat cleaned itself.
- We built the house ourselves.
- You should help yourselves to some food.
- She looked at herself in the mirror.
- He did the homework himself.
- They introduced themselves to the class.
Notice how each reflexive pronoun refers back to the subject of the sentence.
Types of Reflexive Pronouns
- myself (I)
- yourself (you, singular)
- himself (he)
- herself (she)
- itself (it)
- ourselves (we)
- yourselves (you, plural)
- themselves (they)
Special Rules and Notes
- Use a reflexive pronoun only when the subject and object are the same.
- Do not use reflexive pronouns in place of personal pronouns (Incorrect: Myself will go. Correct: I will go.)
- Reflexive pronouns can be used for emphasis (e.g., I did it myself.)
- Never use "hisself" or "theirselves"—these are incorrect forms.
- Reflexive pronouns are not used after prepositions of place (Incorrect: He put the book near himself. Correct: He put the book near him.)
Quick Quiz: Spot the Reflexive Pronoun!
Which words are reflexive pronouns in these sentences?
- She made the dress herself.
- We enjoyed ourselves at the fair.
- He hurt himself while playing.
- The cat cleaned itself.
- They introduced themselves to the class.
Answers: herself, ourselves, himself, itself, themselves
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a reflexive pronoun?
A reflexive pronoun is a pronoun that refers back to the subject of the sentence and ends in -self (singular) or -selves (plural), such as myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, ourselves, yourselves, themselves.
When do you use reflexive pronouns?
Use reflexive pronouns when the subject and object of a verb are the same person or thing, or for emphasis. For example, "I hurt myself" or "She made it herself."
What are all the reflexive pronouns?
The reflexive pronouns are: myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, ourselves, yourselves, and themselves.
Can you use reflexive pronouns as subjects?
No, never use reflexive pronouns as subjects. Say "I will go" not "Myself will go." Reflexive pronouns must refer back to a subject.
What is the difference between reflexive and intensive pronouns?
Reflexive pronouns are necessary for the sentence meaning (I hurt myself), while intensive pronouns add emphasis and can be removed (I made it myself).
Are "hisself" and "theirselves" correct?
No, "hisself" and "theirselves" are incorrect. The correct forms are "himself" and "themselves."
Can reflexive pronouns be used after prepositions?
Generally no, especially prepositions of place. Say "He put the book near him" not "near himself." However, some expressions like "by myself" are acceptable.
Why are reflexive pronouns important?
Reflexive pronouns help show that the subject and object are the same person or thing, and can add emphasis, making sentences clearer and more precise.
Conclusion
Understanding reflexive pronouns is key to writing and speaking English clearly and accurately. Reflexive pronouns help you show when the subject and object are the same, and can add emphasis to your sentences. Practice identifying and using them in everything you read or write. The more you practice, the easier it gets!