Learn English – Pronouns: when to use possessive vs reflexive

possessivespronounsreflexive-pronouns

I'm studying English grammar in depth (I have just basics now) and I'm asking myself when to use possessive pronouns (like mine, yours etc.) and when reflexive (like myself, yourself, himself etc.)

When use it and how to use it?

Best Answer

You use a possessive pronoun to replace a possessive determiner (eg my) and a noun:

This is my hat -> This is mine.

You use a reflexive pronoun when the object (direct,indirect or attached with a preposition) of the verb is the same as the subject:

I fell off my bike and hurt myself - direct
I bought myself a new hat.- indirect
I bought a new hat for myself - preposition

You also use a reflexive pronoun for emphasis

I made it myself!

You can use a reflexive pronoun with by, to mean alone:

I went by myself

You can also use it to politely refer to somebody, but I find this very irritating.

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