When is “myself” Used?
The pronoun “myself” is a reflexive pronoun that is often used to refer back to the speaker or writer. Understanding when and how to use “myself” correctly is an important aspect of English grammar. In this article, we will explore the various situations in which “myself” is commonly used, providing examples and explanations to help you master this pronoun.
1. Reflexive Use
The primary function of “myself” is to act as a reflexive pronoun, which means it refers back to the subject of the sentence. This usage is most common in sentences where the subject and the object are the same person. For example:
– I cut myself while preparing dinner.
– She hurt herself while playing soccer.
In these examples, “myself” is used to emphasize that the subject (I, she) is the one who is affected by the action.
2. Emphasizing the Subject
Another common use of “myself” is to emphasize the subject of the sentence. This is often done when the subject is already mentioned earlier in the conversation or text. For example:
– I saw John at the store. He said he was feeling fine, but I could tell he was really upset with himself.
– She called me last night. She said she was sorry for the way she acted, and she promised to make it up to myself.
In these examples, “myself” is used to emphasize that the subject is the one who is experiencing the emotion or action.
3. In Place of “I” in Certain Phrases
There are some phrases where “myself” is used instead of “I” for stylistic reasons. These phrases often involve modesty or humility. For example:
– I’m not as good as myself.
– She can’t do it herself, but with help, she might be able to.
In these cases, “myself” is used to convey a sense of modesty or to emphasize the speaker’s self-deprecation.
4. In Response to Questions
When responding to questions, “myself” can be used to avoid repetition. For example:
– How are you doing?
– I’m doing fine myself.
– Are you ready for the party?
– Yes, I’m ready myself.
In these examples, “myself” is used to provide a brief and polite response without repeating the subject.
5. In Certain Collocations
Some collocations in English require the use of “myself” alongside other verbs or adjectives. For example:
– I apologize to myself for not being able to attend the meeting.
– She congratulated herself on completing the project on time.
In these cases, “myself” is used to emphasize the subject’s self-reflection or self-congratulation.
In conclusion, “myself” is a versatile pronoun with various uses in English. By understanding the different contexts in which it is employed, you can effectively incorporate “myself” into your writing and speaking. Remember to use it as a reflexive pronoun, to emphasize the subject, in certain phrases, in response to questions, and in specific collocations. With practice, you’ll become more comfortable using “myself” correctly in your daily communication.
