Emphatic Pronouns
Listen to four conversations using the grammar point.
Answer the following questions about the interview.
Special Cases for Reflexive Pronouns
Point 1: Reflexive pronouns can be emphatic pronouns which are extra pronouns that are not essential but add ephasis.
- I made the computer with no help.
- I made the computer (all by) myself. (Emphasizes no help)
- You can learn how to do it.
- You can learn how to do it yourself. (Emphasizes no help)
Point 2 : If a reflexive pronoun is not needed, then it is emphatic. If it is needed, then it is a normal reflexive pronoun.
- I often talk to myself. (normal reflexive pronoun)
- I bought it myself. (emphatic pronoun)
- He hates seeing himself in the mirror. (normal reflexive pronoun)
- He gave it to her himself. (emphatic pronoun)
Point 3: Reflexive pronouns can appear in prepositional phrases.
- I live by myself.
- Don't be hard on yourself.
- It pays for itself.
- I try not to talk about myself.
Point 4 : There are many common phrases using reflexive pronouns.
- Help yourself. (Free free to have something)
- They can't help themselves. (Have no self-contol)
- Don't be hard on yourself. (Do not be overly critical)
- It pays for itself. (The savings cover the cost)
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