Reflexive Pronouns

Reflexive pronouns are used in English when the subject of the sentence is also the object of the verb. Simply add the appropriate pronoun with the ending –self or ­–selves after the verb. For example, "Let me introduce myself. My name is Sonia," or, "The children enjoyed themselves at the beach."

Some verbs change their meaning slightly when they have a reflexive pronoun as direct object. For instance, "She found herself at the grocery store," or, "We will help ourselves to some coffee." To find oneself means to discover oneself in a surprising place or situation, and to help oneself means to take.

Unlike in other languages, we do not use a reflexive pronoun after verbs which describe things people usually do for themselves. Verbs like wash, dress, and shave do not usually include a reflexive pronoun.

However, reflexive pronouns are used in this way to stress that someone can do something without help. For example, "My daughter can dress herself now that she's five," or, "I can feed myself. I don't need your help!"