In the journey of mastering the English language, one encounters various types of pronouns, each serving its unique purpose. Among these, intensive pronouns hold a special place due to their distinctive function. While many learners might confuse them with other types of pronouns, especially reflexive pronouns, understanding their specific role can significantly enhance one’s command over the language. This article will delve deep into the world of intensive pronouns, exploring their usage, differences from reflexive pronouns, and ways to practice and master them.
What Are Intensive Pronouns?
Intensive pronouns, also known as emphatic pronouns, are used to add emphasis to a noun or another pronoun. They are formed by adding the suffix “-self” or “-selves” to certain personal pronouns. The list of intensive pronouns includes:
– Myself
– Yourself
– Himself
– Herself
– Itself
– Ourselves
– Yourselves
– Themselves
These pronouns are used to stress the subject of the sentence, highlighting that the subject performed the action independently or without assistance. For example:
– I did it myself.
– She prepared the entire meal herself.
In these sentences, “myself” and “herself” are used to emphasize that the subjects (I and she) performed the actions without any help.
Intensive vs. Reflexive Pronouns
One of the common challenges language learners face is distinguishing between intensive and reflexive pronouns. While they look identical, their functions differ.
Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject and the object of the sentence are the same, indicating that the action is performed on oneself. For example:
– I taught myself to play the piano.
– He cut himself while shaving.
In these sentences, “myself” and “himself” are reflexive pronouns because the subjects (I and he) are also the objects receiving the action.
On the other hand, intensive pronouns can be removed from the sentence without changing its basic meaning. They are purely for emphasis. For example:
– The mayor himself attended the ceremony.
– The CEO will handle the matter herself.
If we remove the intensive pronouns, the sentences still make sense:
– The mayor attended the ceremony.
– The CEO will handle the matter.
Usage of Intensive Pronouns
To effectively use intensive pronouns, it’s essential to understand their correct placement and function within sentences. Here are a few guidelines to follow:
1. Emphasizing the Subject
Intensive pronouns are primarily used to emphasize the subject of the sentence, highlighting the importance or exclusivity of the subject’s action. For example:
– The president himself signed the treaty.
– She herself organized the entire event.
2. Placing the Pronoun
Typically, intensive pronouns are placed immediately after the subject they emphasize. However, they can also be placed at the end of the sentence for emphasis:
– The children themselves cleaned up the mess.
– The children cleaned up the mess themselves.
3. Avoiding Redundancy
While intensive pronouns add emphasis, overusing them can lead to redundancy and awkward sentences. It’s important to use them sparingly and only when necessary to highlight the subject’s role. For example:
– Correct: The author himself will be signing books at the event.
– Incorrect: The author himself himself will be signing books at the event.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Given their similarity to reflexive pronouns, it’s common for learners to make mistakes when using intensive pronouns. Here are some common pitfalls and tips to avoid them:
1. Confusing Intensive and Reflexive Pronouns
As mentioned earlier, reflexive pronouns indicate that the subject and object are the same, while intensive pronouns are purely for emphasis. Always check if the pronoun can be removed without altering the sentence’s meaning. If it can, it’s likely an intensive pronoun. For example:
– Reflexive: She taught herself French. (Can’t remove “herself”)
– Intensive: She herself taught the class. (Can remove “herself”)
2. Misplacing the Pronoun
Intensive pronouns should be placed immediately after the subject or at the end of the sentence for emphasis. Incorrect placement can lead to confusion or awkward sentences. For example:
– Correct: The manager himself will attend the meeting.
– Incorrect: The manager will himself attend the meeting.
3. Overusing Intensive Pronouns
While intensive pronouns add emphasis, overusing them can make sentences sound repetitive and awkward. Use them judiciously to maintain clarity and flow in your writing. For example:
– Correct: The students themselves built the project.
– Incorrect: The students themselves themselves built the project.
Practical Exercises for Mastery
To master the use of intensive pronouns, it’s important to practice through various exercises. Here are some exercises to help you get started:
1. Identify the Pronoun
Read the following sentences and identify whether the pronoun is intensive or reflexive:
1. She decorated the room herself.
2. I taught myself to play the guitar.
3. The CEO herself will announce the new policy.
4. They blame themselves for the mistake.
5. The children themselves completed the project.
2. Rewrite the Sentences
Rewrite the following sentences by adding an appropriate intensive pronoun for emphasis:
1. The chef prepared the meal.
2. The mayor attended the event.
3. The author signed the books.
4. The teacher graded the papers.
5. The students organized the event.
3. Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the correct intensive pronoun:
1. The president ________ announced the new policy.
2. She ________ managed the entire project.
3. The team ________ designed the new product.
4. I ________ will handle the situation.
5. They ________ cleaned the entire house.
Understanding the Context
Intensive pronouns are often used in formal writing and speeches to add emphasis and draw attention to the subject’s role. Understanding the context in which they are used can help you determine when to use them effectively.
1. Formal Writing
In formal writing, such as academic papers or professional emails, intensive pronouns can be used to emphasize key points or highlight the importance of certain actions. For example:
– The CEO herself approved the new policy.
– The committee members themselves conducted the investigation.
2. Speeches and Presentations
In speeches and presentations, intensive pronouns can be used to add emphasis and engage the audience. For example:
– I myself witnessed the event.
– The team themselves achieved this remarkable feat.
Conclusion
Intensive pronouns play a crucial role in adding emphasis and highlighting the subject’s role in a sentence. While they may appear similar to reflexive pronouns, their function is distinct and unique. By understanding their usage, avoiding common mistakes, and practicing through exercises, you can master the use of intensive pronouns and enhance your command over the English language. Remember, the key to effective communication lies in the details, and mastering intensive pronouns is a step towards achieving clarity and precision in your writing and speech.
