Reflexive pronouns
myself, yourself, themselves, and when NOT to use them.
The rules
- Subject and object are the same person → reflexive: "taught herself".
- Plural "we" → "ourselves" (emphasis: without help).
- "Feel" + adjective takes no reflexive in English: "I feel tired".
- Addressing several people → "yourselves".
- Verb + reflexive + "for": "blamed himself for".
- "By myself" = alone, fixed phrase.
Examples
- She taught herself to play the piano.
- We painted the flat ourselves.
- I feel tired today.
- Help yourselves to some cake, everyone!
- He blamed himself for the mistake.
- I live by myself.
Quick check
Pick an answer to see the rule behind it.
1.She taught _____ to play the piano.
2.We painted the flat _____.
3.Which sentence is correct?
4.Help _____ to some cake, everyone!
5.Which sentence uses "by myself" correctly?