What are Emphatic Pronouns?
Emphatic pronouns are pronouns that are used to emphasize a noun or another pronoun in a sentence. They highlight the importance of the subject or object being referred to. Emphatic pronouns are formed by adding the suffix "-self" or "-selves" to certain personal pronouns.
Types of Emphatic Pronouns
- Singular:
- myself (I)
- yourself (you)
- himself (he)
- herself (she)
- itself (it)
- Plural:
- ourselves (we)
- yourselves (you)
- themselves (they)
Usage of Emphatic Pronouns
- To emphasize the subject:
- "I made the cake myself."
- To add focus to the action:
- "You should take care of yourself."
- Highlighting responsibility:
- "They completed the project themselves."
Examples of Emphatic Pronouns in Sentences
- "She painted the picture herself."
- "We will solve this problem ourselves."
- "He fixed the car himself."
Conclusion
Emphatic pronouns are a useful tool in English for emphasizing actions and responsibilities. By using them, speakers and writers can clarify who is responsible for an action or highlight the importance of a particular subject. Understanding how to use emphatic pronouns can enhance your communication skills greatly.