Reflexive Pronouns
Reflexive pronouns such as “myself,” “yourself,” and “themselves” normally refer back to the clause subject and can also add emphasis. Do not automatically substitute reflexive forms for ordinary subject or object pronouns; forms such as “myself went” are not licensed by the reflexive rule.
Reflexive pronouns such as “myself,” “yourself,” and “themselves” normally refer back to the clause subject and can also add emphasis.
Key details
Important caveats
Scope Boundary
Do not automatically substitute reflexive forms for ordinary subject or object pronouns; forms such as “myself went” are not licensed by the reflexive rule.
Further guidance
Application
Use a reflexive pronoun when subject and object refer to the same participant, or for emphasis where the grammar allows it.
Core Rule
Reflexive pronouns such as “myself,” “yourself,” and “themselves” normally refer back to the clause subject and can also add emphasis.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Pronouns: reflexive (myself, themselves, etc.) — Cambridge Grammar (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Direct grammar evidence for reflexive-pronoun forms, same-subject/object use, emphasis, and common restrictions.