Intensive Pronouns vs. Reflexive Pronouns

Attribute	Intensive Pronouns	Reflexive Pronouns
Function	Emphasizes a preceding noun or pronoun	Refers back to the subject of the sentence
Examples	myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, ourselves, yourselves, themselves	myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, ourselves, yourselves, themselves
Usage	Used for emphasis or intensification	Used to refer back to the subject

Intensive pronouns and reflexive pronouns are two types of pronouns that are often confused due to their similarities. However, they serve different purposes in a sentence and have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the differences between intensive pronouns and reflexive pronouns, as well as their unique characteristics.

Definition of Intensive Pronouns

Intensive pronouns, also known as emphatic pronouns, are pronouns that are used to emphasize a noun or pronoun in a sentence. They are not essential to the meaning of the sentence and can be removed without changing the overall message. Intensive pronouns are formed by adding "-self" (singular) or "-selves" (plural) to certain pronouns, such as "myself," "yourself," "himself," "herself," "itself," "ourselves," "yourselves," and "themselves."

Examples of Intensive Pronouns

Here are some examples of intensive pronouns in sentences:

• Imyself completed the project.
• Youyourself are responsible for your actions.
• Sheherself made the decision.
• Weourselves will take care of the situation.
• Theythemselves organized the event.

Definition of Reflexive Pronouns

Reflexive pronouns, on the other hand, are pronouns that refer back to the subject of the sentence and are essential to the meaning of the sentence. Reflexive pronouns are formed by adding "-self" (singular) or "-selves" (plural) to certain pronouns, such as "myself," "yourself," "himself," "herself," "itself," "ourselves," "yourselves," and "themselves." Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject and object of a sentence are the same.

Examples of Reflexive Pronouns

Here are some examples of reflexive pronouns in sentences:

• I hurtmyself while playing basketball.
• You should be proud ofyourself.
• She boughtherself a new dress.
• We need to take care ofourselves.
• They enjoyedthemselves at the party.

Differences Between Intensive Pronouns and Reflexive Pronouns

One key difference between intensive pronouns and reflexive pronouns is their function in a sentence. Intensive pronouns are used to emphasize a noun or pronoun, while reflexive pronouns are used to refer back to the subject of the sentence. Another difference is that intensive pronouns can be removed from a sentence without changing its meaning, whereas reflexive pronouns are essential to the meaning of the sentence.

Additionally, intensive pronouns are often used for emphasis or to add emphasis to a sentence, while reflexive pronouns are used to show that the subject of the sentence is also the object of the action. Intensive pronouns are typically placed immediately after the noun or pronoun they are emphasizing, while reflexive pronouns are placed directly after the verb or preposition that they are referring back to.

Usage of Intensive Pronouns and Reflexive Pronouns

Intensive pronouns are commonly used in sentences to add emphasis or to highlight a particular noun or pronoun. They are often used in informal speech or writing to draw attention to a specific element of the sentence. Reflexive pronouns, on the other hand, are used when the subject and object of a sentence are the same, indicating that the action is being performed by the subject on itself.

It is important to use intensive pronouns and reflexive pronouns correctly in sentences to avoid confusion and ensure clarity in communication. By understanding the differences between these two types of pronouns and their unique attributes, writers and speakers can effectively convey their intended meaning and avoid grammatical errors.