Reflexive pronoun Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Home
/ Dictionary
/ Reflexive pronoun

🔄

Add to dictionary

reflexive pronoun

[rɪˈflɛksɪv ˈprəʊnaʊn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

grammar

A pronoun that refers back to the subject of the clause or sentence. Reflexive pronouns are formed by adding -self or -selves to a personal pronoun, for example, 'myself', 'yourself', 'himself'.

Synonyms

personal pronoun, reflexive object, self pronoun.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
reflexive pronoun	A reflexive pronoun is used when the subject and the object of the sentence are the same person or thing. It typically refers back to the subject. She taught herself Spanish. I cut myself while cooking.
self pronoun	This term is another way to refer to reflexive pronouns, as they often include the word 'self' (or 'selves' for plural). It is less commonly used than 'reflexive pronoun'. Himself, herself, and themselves are all self pronouns.
personal pronoun	A personal pronoun is used as a substitute for a specific person or thing that is mentioned elsewhere in the conversation or the sentence. He went to the store. They are planning to travel next week.
reflexive object	This term refers to the object in the sentence that is the same as the subject, typically used with a reflexive pronoun. In the sentence 'She looked at herself in the mirror,' 'herself' is the reflexive object.

Examples of usage

He hurt himself while playing football.
She bought herself a new dress for the party.
They should be proud of themselves for their hard work.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

grammar

A pronoun used for emphasis or to show that the action of the verb affects the subject itself. Reflexive pronouns are also used for reciprocal actions.

Synonyms

personal pronoun, reflexive object, self pronoun.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
reflexive pronoun	Reflexive pronouns, repeated for emphasizing the primary usage of self-related pronouns. We enjoyed ourselves at the party. You should take better care of yourself.
self pronoun	Self pronouns are another term for reflexive pronouns, used less formally but meaning the same concept. He made himself a sandwich. We treated ourselves to a day at the spa.
personal pronoun	Personal pronouns replace specific people or things and are used based on four characteristics: person (first, second, third), number (singular, plural), gender (he, she, they), and case (subject, object, possessive). He is going to the store. I like her dress. They are my friends.
reflexive object	Reflexive objects are objects that reflect back to the subject of the sentence. It’s another way to talk about reflexive pronouns but specifically in the context of them receiving the action of the verb. She prepared herself a cup of tea. He injured himself while playing.

Examples of usage

I made the decision myself.
The children helped each other with their homework.
We need to take care of ourselves in order to stay healthy.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Grammar

Reflexive pronouns include 'myself,' 'yourself,' 'himself,' 'herself,' 'itself,' 'ourselves,' 'yourselves,' and 'themselves.'
They are used when the subject and the object of the verb in a sentence are the same person or thing, emphasizing that the action is self-directed.

Language Use

Using reflexive pronouns can add emphasis. For example, saying 'I did it myself' stresses personal effort.
In many languages, reflexive pronouns are essential for expressing certain actions that are reciprocal or self-directed.

Cognitive Psychology

Understanding reflexive pronouns can be linked to an individual’s ability to reflect on their actions, which is a cognitive skill developed in childhood.
Using them correctly shows a higher level of language proficiency, indicating more advanced cognitive processing.

Pop Culture

The phrase 'I did it all by myself' has become a popular motivational quote emphasizing independence and self-reliance in various media.
Reflexive pronouns are often featured in song lyrics and poetry, where the themes of self-discovery and individuality are common.

Origin of 'reflexive pronoun'

Main points about word origin

The term 'reflexive' comes from the Latin word 'reflexus,' meaning 'bent back,' which reflects its function in grammar.
The concept of reflexive pronouns emerged in English as the language evolved from Old English around the 12th century.

The term 'reflexive pronoun' originated from the Latin word 'reflexivus', which means 'bent back'. It has been used in English grammar to describe pronouns that reflect or refer back to the subject of the clause since the 16th century. Reflexive pronouns play a crucial role in emphasizing actions or showing reciprocity in sentences.