Definition:
A reflexive pronoun is a type of pronoun that ends with “-self” or “-selves” and is used when the subject of a sentence performs an action on itself. In simpler terms, it means that the person doing the action is also the one receiving the action.
Reflexive pronouns can also be used for emphasis. This is called an emphatic use. For example: - I made this cake myself! (Emphasizing that I, and no one else, made the cake.)
The term "reflexive" refers to the action reflecting back on the subject. There are no direct variants of the word "reflexive pronoun," but understanding the concept of "reflexivity" in grammar is important.
While reflexive pronouns primarily refer to the action affecting the subject, they can also imply self-help or self-care in different contexts: - I need to take care of myself. (Here, it emphasizes personal well-being.)
There aren't direct synonyms for reflexive pronouns, but you can use phrases like "on my own" or "by myself" in certain contexts: - I completed the project by myself.
There are no specific idioms that use reflexive pronouns, but you can find phrases that imply self-reliance or independence, such as: - "Stand on your own two feet." (Meaning to be self-sufficient.)
While reflexive pronouns don’t typically combine with phrasal verbs, you can use them in sentences with phrasal verbs that imply action on oneself: - I need to wake myself up before the meeting.
In summary, reflexive pronouns are important in English for indicating that the subject of a sentence is also the object of the action.