reflexive
- noun
- /rɪˈflɛksɪv/
- Specialized
- In English, we use the term reflexive to describe pronouns like 'myself' and 'yourself'.
- ordinary reflexives
- type of reflexive
Examples
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I have this sort of reflexive relation to myself.
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We have the capacity to have a reflexive relation with ourselves.
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When expressing thoughts about self-care, many people refer to their reflexive self as a way to foster personal growth.
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In language studies, understanding the concept of reflexive pronouns helps clarify how subjects and objects relate in sentences.
Synonyms
A pronoun like myself that points back to the person, animal, or thing doing the action
Compounds
- Specialized
A verb where one person does and receives the action, using words like 'myself'
- Specialized
A pronoun like myself that points back to the person, animal, or thing doing the action
Surface Forms
Etymology
Reflexive (the noun) is named from re- 'back' and flect 'to bend' together with -self 'self', as in 'myself'. A reflexive pronoun shows the action goes back to the subject, which is why we use words like 'myself' or 'herself'.