Is the pronoun reflexive or intensive?
Key Notes:
✨ Reflexive vs. Intensive Pronouns ✨
| What is a Reflexive Pronoun? |
Definition: A reflexive pronoun shows that the subject of the sentence does the action to itself.
Examples: myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, ourselves, yourselves, themselves
Usage Clue: You cannot remove it from the sentence—it is necessary for meaning. ✅
Example Sentences:
- I taught myself to play the guitar. 🎸
- She prepared herself for the exam. 📚
| What is an Intensive Pronoun? |
Definition: An intensive pronoun is used to emphasize the subject, but the sentence still makes sense without it.
Examples: myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, ourselves, yourselves, themselves (same words as reflexive!)
Usage Clue: It is optional—used only for emphasis. 💪
Example Sentences:
- I myself finished the project. 🖊️
- The king himself attended the ceremony. 👑
| How to Tell the Difference |
| Feature | Reflexive Pronoun | Intensive Pronoun |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Shows action back on the subject | Emphasizes the subject |
| Necessary? | Yes ✅ | No, optional 💡 |
| Example | She taught herself. | She herself taught the lesson. |
| Can you remove it? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Quick Tip to Remember |
- If removing the pronoun changes the meaning → Reflexive ❌
- If removing it still leaves a correct sentence → Intensive 💪
| Fun Memory Trick! 🎨 |
- Reflexive = Reflect 🪞 (the action reflects back)
- Intensive = Important ⭐ (the subject is important/emphasized)
Let’s Practice! 🖊️
