Often in writing, writers must emphasize their ideas to impart critical information to their reader. There are certain ways of accomplishing this feat. In fact, there are certain words that can help us accomplish more nuanced and incisive grammar. These words are either reflexive or intensive pronouns.

Defining Pronouns

Before we get into the “intensive” nature of these pronouns, we should take a look at what a “pronoun” is exactly. That is to say, a pronoun takes the place of a noun or a noun phrase that has already appeared in a sentence. Pronouns also take the place of words that we don’t need to be too specific about in the sentence.

Intensive pronouns emphasize key ideas in writing. These types of pronouns clarify importance and direct reader attention.

Example

Larry (noun) wanted to wash his car, so he (pronoun) decided to buy soap. (He is the pronoun in the above sentence as it references Larry).

Defining Intensive Pronouns

Intensive Pronoun: A pronoun form that re-emphasizes a noun or pronoun.

Intensive pronouns act as extensions of pronouns for effect. As a matter of execution, we use them as emphasis in a sentence. Intensive pronouns show what is important or highlighted. Drawing the reader’s eye to an idea or a particular person can be essential for the meaning of ideas.

Examples of Intensive Pronouns

1. He himself was going to buy the soap at the store.
2. I myself am interested in the sport.
3. You yourself are headed to the aquarium.
4. She herself is capable of great things.
5. It itself should not be capable of performing that task.

Other examples include ourselves, yourselves, and themselves.

Reflexive Versus Intensive Pronouns

Reflexive Pronoun: A pronoun that refers back to the subject of a sentence and acts as its object.

As emphasis, reflexive pronouns act as emphasis, but because their job is to be an object in a sentence (receiving the action), they are irreplaceable and refer back to a subject. While you can remove an intensive pronoun from a sentence, you cannot remove a reflexive pronoun from a sentence.

Examples of Reflexive Pronouns

1. He imagined himself at the head of the class giving his speech.
2. She saw herself becoming a champion at the Olympics.
3. I could not help myself today, as I was too far gone.
4. You can see yourself out of the restaurant when you are done.
5. They bought themselves tickets to the concert to have some fun.

Conclusion

In summation, by utilizing reflexive and intensive pronouns, writers can clarify importance in a sentence . They can also show readers what to pay attention to in a text through emphasis. Additionally, reflexive and intensive pronouns can set a tone for a piece of writing by showing exaltation or irritation. Either way, both forms draw attention to where to specific points on the page.