Introduction

Relevance of the Theme

The correct use of reflexive pronouns is crucial in English communication. These pronouns are responsible for expressing the action of a verb back to the subject of the sentence, playing a fundamental role in constructing the meaning of the sentence. Their improper use can lead to misunderstandings or, in a formal context, a bad impression. Therefore, mastering reflexive pronouns is an essential component to becoming an effective and confident English speaker.

Contextualization

In the vast world of English grammar, reflexive pronouns are a valuable subcategory of pronouns. Despite their apparent simplicity, the correct use of these pronouns can confuse even those who are proficient in other areas of the language. Therefore, this lesson on 'Pronouns: Reflexive' fits into a broader context of grammatical study and expands the student's repertoire of language skills. Furthermore, understanding reflexive pronouns is an effective preparation for more advanced topics, such as discussions on the use of indefinite pronouns or the construction of passive sentences. A solid understanding will open doors to explore the depth and complexity of the English language.

Theoretical Development

Components

• Reflexive Pronouns in English: In comparison to Portuguese, English uses reflexive pronouns more frequently. They are formed by adding the suffix '-self' (singular) or '-selves' (plural) to the corresponding personal pronoun. These pronouns are used to indicate that the subject and the object of the sentence are the same person or thing.

  • Singular: Myself, Yourself, Himself, Herself, Itself
  • Plural: Ourselves, Yourselves, Themselves

• Reflexivity and Reciprocity: An important point in the use of reflexive pronouns is the difference between reflexivity and reciprocity. Reflexivity indicates that the action of a verb returns to the same subject of the sentence, while reciprocity indicates that the action of the verb is shared among the elements of the sentence.

• Placement of Pronouns: In English, reflexive pronouns are generally placed after the verb or preposition. They are never the subject of the sentence.

  • Examples: She loves herself. He speaks to himself. We did it ourselves.

Key Terms

• Reflexivity: A grammatical concept that expresses an action that returns to the subject of the sentence.
• Reciprocity: A grammatical concept that indicates an action shared between two or more elements of the sentence.
• Suffix -self/-selves: Element added to personal pronouns to form reflexive pronouns.

Examples and Cases

• Self-esteem with 'myself': When using 'myself', we emphasize that we did something alone, and often this choice of pronoun reflects a feeling of self-esteem or an action of self-care.

  • Example: 'I made this dress myself.'

• Knowing oneself with 'yourself': The use of 'yourself' indicates a reflection or action directed towards the self. It is commonly used in counseling or introspective questioning.

  • Example: 'Have you ever really asked yourself what you want in life?'

• Reflexivity and reciprocity with 'each other': The reflexive pronoun 'each other' is a special case, as it is used to indicate reciprocity, that is, an action shared between two people or things.

  • Example: 'They love each other.'

Detailed Summary

Key Points

• Use and Formation of Reflexive Pronouns: The formation of reflexive pronouns in English is quite systematic, increasing the frequency with which they are used compared to Portuguese. The suffixes -self and -selves are added to personal pronouns, and it is essential to remember that they are never the subject of the sentence.

• Difference between Reflexivity and Reciprocity: Understanding the distinction between these grammar concepts is essential for the proper use of reflexive pronouns. Reflexivity indicates that the action returns to the subject, while reciprocity indicates that the action is shared among the elements of the sentence.

• Placement of Pronouns: In most cases, reflexive pronouns are placed after the verb or preposition. However, sometimes they can act as the subject to emphasize the sentence's subject.

Conclusions

• Implication for Effective Communication: The proper use of reflexive pronouns is not only vital for grammar but also for effective communication. Errors, even subtle ones, can confuse the meaning of a sentence and, in some cases, can even lead to misunderstandings.

• Variety of Reflexive Pronouns: Reflexive pronouns in English are not limited to use with the first person only. They are used with all personal pronouns, singular or plural, and regardless of the grammatical case (nominative, accusative, or dative).

• Mastery of Advanced Levels of English: Mastering reflexive pronouns not only enriches the set of language skills but also serves as a solid foundation for dealing with more advanced topics in English, such as indefinite pronouns and passive sentences.

Suggested Exercises

1. Fill in the blanks with the appropriate reflexive pronoun: 'She wrote the letter ___.'
2. Identify if the following sentences demonstrate reflexivity or reciprocity: 'They met at the park and smiled at each other.' and 'He saw himself in the mirror.'
3. Rewrite the following sentences, replacing the reflexive pronoun with the non-reflexive form: 'I did it myself.' and 'She made the dress herself.'