Reflexive pronouns

These pronouns usually follow the verb and indicate that the subject is both giving and receiving the action. Study the following list.

Myself       ourselves Yourself        yourselves Himself           Herself         themselves        Itself

Note: In the plural, the self changes to selves.

Note: Most forms are made by adding the suffix to the possessive adjective; however, him self, itself, and themselves are made by adding the suffix to the complement form. The forms his self and theirself are always incorrect.

Note: John bought him a new car. (him= another person)

          John bought himself a new car. (himself= john)

Examples of reflexive pronouns:

• I washed myself
• He sent the letter to himself
• She served herself in the cafeteria.
• We hurt ourselves playing football.
• They were talking among themselves
• You can see the difference for yourselves

Reflexive pronouns can also be used for emphasis. This means that the subject did the action alone. In this case, it normally follows the subject.

• I myself believe that the proposal is good.
• He himself set out to break the long distance flying record.
• She prepared the nine-course meal herself.
• The students themselves decorated the room.
• You yourself it must do this homework.
• John himself bought these gifts.

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