Reflexive pronouns are essential for indicating that the subject of a sentence is acting upon itself. This lesson will help you use reflexive pronouns accurately to maintain clarity and precision in your writing.
Examples
Example 1
IncorrectShe prepared her for the presentation.
BetterShe prepared herself for the presentation.
The reflexive pronoun 'herself' clarifies that the subject is performing the action on herself.
Example 2
IncorrectThey taught them to play guitar.
BetterThey taught themselves to play guitar.
Using 'themselves' indicates that the group did the action on their own.
How It Works
Meaning
Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject and the object of a sentence are the same entity. They emphasize that the action of the verb returns to the subject itself.
Formation: subject + verb + reflexive pronoun (myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, ourselves, yourselves, themselves).
At B2 level, understanding reflexive pronouns helps in creating precise and clear sentences, especially in complex structures.
Use it when
- The subject and object of the sentence are the same.
- You want to emphasize that the subject is performing the action on itself.
- In formal writing to avoid ambiguity.
- When giving instructions or commands to oneself.
See it
Quick rules
- Use reflexive pronouns when the subject and object are the same.
- Do not use reflexive pronouns if the action does not return to the subject.
- Reflexive pronouns can be used for emphasis.
- Avoid unnecessary reflexive pronouns in simple sentences.
Common Mistakes
Common problem 1
Using non-reflexive pronouns incorrectly
WeakHe looked at him in the mirror.
StrongHe looked at himself in the mirror.
Fix: Use a reflexive pronoun when the subject and object are the same.
Common problem 2
Overusing reflexive pronouns
WeakShe herself cooked the dinner herself.
StrongShe cooked the dinner herself.
Fix: Use reflexive pronouns only when necessary for clarity or emphasis.
Common problem 3
Using reflexive pronouns for emphasis incorrectly
WeakThe CEO himself attended the meeting.
StrongThe CEO attended the meeting himself.
Fix: Place reflexive pronouns correctly when used for emphasis.
Practice Lab
Practice
Identify the correct reflexive pronoun usage, then apply it in sentences.
Score: 0/3
Focus on sentences where the subject and object are the same.
1. Quick pick
Choose the sentence with correct reflexive pronoun usage.
2. Build it
Put this reflexive pronoun sentence in the correct order.
Tap a chunk to move it down. Tap it again to send it back.
3. Final sort
Mark each sentence as correct or needing a fix.
She taught herself to cook.
She taught her to cook.
They enjoyed themselves at the party.
They enjoyed them at the party.
Why It Matters
🎯 Why it matters: Reflexive pronouns ensure clarity in sentences where the subject acts upon itself. Mastering their use enhances sentence precision and helps avoid ambiguity, making your communication clearer and more professional.
Get Feedback
Personalized score feedback
Get clear next-step advice.
Choose the support that matches your study goal. You get direct correction, clear scoring language, and a simple next step.
Best when you need precise correction on grammar control, task response quality, and exam-style scoring.
Personalized Coaching
Need faster IELTS improvement? Book a focused 1:1 strategy session.Get free Band 7+ strategies every week
Get free Band 7+ strategies every week