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reflexive

reflexive

4.8
A pronoun ending in -self or -selves that refers back to the subject
  • noun
  • /rɪˈflɛksɪv/
  • Specialized
translation icon : pronombre reflexivo
  • In English, we use the term reflexive to describe pronouns like 'myself' and 'yourself'.
  • ordinary reflexives
  • type of reflexive

Examples

  • I have this sort of reflexive relation to myself.

  • We have the capacity to have a reflexive relation with ourselves.

  • When expressing thoughts about self-care, many people refer to their reflexive self as a way to foster personal growth.

  • In language studies, understanding the concept of reflexive pronouns helps clarify how subjects and objects relate in sentences.

Synonyms

reflexive pronoun
vsreflexive
  • Specialized
3.1

A pronoun like myself that points back to the person, animal, or thing doing the action

is the same but described by having endings 'self' or 'selves'

Compounds

reflexive verb
  • Specialized
6.8

A verb where one person does and receives the action, using words like 'myself'

A quick action you do without thinking

reflexive pronoun
  • Specialized
3.1

A pronoun like myself that points back to the person, animal, or thing doing the action

Surface Forms

reflexive singular
reflexives plural

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'.