Distinguishing Reflexive Pronouns: Yourself vs Himself
While both “yourself” and “himself” are reflexive pronouns used for emphasis or to reflect the action of the verb back onto the subject, “yourself” is associated with the second person (you), and “himself” is associated with the third person (he), specifically referring to a male individual. So, let’s continue to explore ‘Yourself ‘ vs ‘Himself.
Yourself:
- “Yourself” is a reflexive pronoun used with the second person (you).
- It reflects the action of the verb back onto the subject, indicating that the subject is both the doer and the receiver of the action.
- Example: “Do it yourself.” Here, “yourself” emphasizes that the person being addressed (you) should perform the action independently.
- “Yourself” is also used for emphasis or clarification.
- Example: “You, yourself, are responsible for the decision.” In this case, “yourself” adds emphasis to the pronoun “you.”
Himself:
- “Himself” is a reflexive pronoun used with the third person (he).
- It reflects the action of the verb back onto a male person or individual previously mentioned in the conversation.
- Example: “He fixed the car himself.” Here, “himself” indicates that the subject (he) performed the action independently.
- “Himself” can also be used for emphasis or clarification.
- Example: “John, himself, confirmed the news.” In this case, “himself” adds emphasis to the fact that John personally confirmed the news.
Let’s Explore More Examples to Illustrate the Usage of ‘Yourself’ or ‘Himself’
Yourself:
Reflexive Use:
- “Sheila, you can do the project all by yourself.”
- “I trust you to make the right decision for yourself.”
Emphatic Use:
- “You, yourself, told me to go ahead with the plan.”
- “Don’t rely on others; take control of your life yourself.”
Himself:
Reflexive Use:
- “Michael fixed the computer himself.”
- “James hurt himself while playing basketball.”
Emphatic Use:
- “He, himself, was surprised by the sudden turn of events.”
- “John, himself, prepared the entire report.”
These examples showcase how “yourself” and “himself” can be used in both reflexive and emphatic contexts to add emphasis, clarify, or indicate that the subject is performing an action independently.