Does The Bold Pronoun Function As A Reflexive Pronoun Or An Intensive Pronoun?They Built A New House For Themselves.A. Intensive Pronoun B. Reflexive Pronoun

The Ambiguous Nature of the Bold Pronoun: Reflexive or Intensive?

Understanding the Basics

In the English language, pronouns play a crucial role in conveying meaning and facilitating communication. Among the various types of pronouns, reflexive and intensive pronouns are two distinct categories that often cause confusion. A reflexive pronoun is used to refer back to the subject of a sentence or clause, indicating that the action is being performed on or by the subject itself. On the other hand, an intensive pronoun is used to emphasize or add intensity to a noun or pronoun, but it does not change the meaning of the sentence.

The Bold Pronoun: A Case of Ambiguity

In the given sentence, "They built a new house for themselves," the bold pronoun "themselves" can be interpreted in two ways. One possible interpretation is that "themselves" is a reflexive pronoun, indicating that the subject "they" is performing the action of building the house for themselves. This would mean that the house is being built for the benefit of the subject itself.

Reflexive Pronoun: A Closer Look

A reflexive pronoun is typically used in sentences where the subject is performing an action on or by itself. For example:

• I cut myself. (Here, "myself" is a reflexive pronoun, indicating that the subject "I" is performing the action of cutting on or by itself.)
• They made themselves a sandwich. (In this sentence, "themselves" is a reflexive pronoun, indicating that the subject "they" is making a sandwich for themselves.)

In the given sentence, "They built a new house for themselves," "themselves" can be seen as a reflexive pronoun, indicating that the subject "they" is building the house for their own benefit.

Intensive Pronoun: A Different Perspective

However, "themselves" can also be interpreted as an intensive pronoun, emphasizing the subject "they" and adding intensity to the sentence. In this case, "themselves" is not changing the meaning of the sentence, but rather adding emphasis to the subject.

For example:

• I love myself. (Here, "myself" is an intensive pronoun, emphasizing the subject "I" and adding intensity to the sentence.)
• They themselves are responsible for the outcome. (In this sentence, "themselves" is an intensive pronoun, emphasizing the subject "they" and adding intensity to the sentence.)

In the given sentence, "They built a new house for themselves," "themselves" can be seen as an intensive pronoun, emphasizing the subject "they" and adding intensity to the sentence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the bold pronoun "themselves" in the sentence "They built a new house for themselves" can be interpreted in two ways: as a reflexive pronoun or an intensive pronoun. While the reflexive interpretation suggests that the subject "they" is performing the action of building the house for themselves, the intensive interpretation emphasizes the subject "they" and adds intensity to the sentence. Ultimately, the correct interpretation depends on the context and the intended meaning of the sentence.

The Importance of Context

Context plays a crucial role in determining whether a pronoun is reflexive or intensive. In the given sentence, the context suggests that the subject "they" is building the house for their own benefit, which supports the reflexive interpretation. However, if the sentence were to be rephrased to "They themselves built a new house," the emphasis would be on the subject "they" and the sentence would take on a different meaning.

The Role of Emphasis

Emphasis is another key factor in determining whether a pronoun is reflexive or intensive. In the given sentence, the emphasis is on the subject "they" and the action of building the house, which supports the intensive interpretation. However, if the emphasis were to be on the subject "they" performing the action of building the house for themselves, the reflexive interpretation would be more appropriate.

The Final Verdict

In the end, the correct interpretation of the bold pronoun "themselves" in the sentence "They built a new house for themselves" depends on the context and the intended meaning of the sentence. While both reflexive and intensive interpretations are possible, the context suggests that the subject "they" is performing the action of building the house for their own benefit, which supports the reflexive interpretation.

A Closer Look at the Options

A. Intensive pronoun B. Reflexive pronoun

The Correct Answer

B. Reflexive pronoun

Why the Correct Answer?

The correct answer is B. Reflexive pronoun because the context of the sentence suggests that the subject "they" is performing the action of building the house for their own benefit. This supports the reflexive interpretation of the pronoun "themselves."
Q&A: The Bold Pronoun - Reflexive or Intensive?

Frequently Asked Questions

In the previous article, we explored the ambiguous nature of the bold pronoun "themselves" in the sentence "They built a new house for themselves." We discussed how the pronoun can be interpreted as either a reflexive pronoun or an intensive pronoun, depending on the context and intended meaning of the sentence. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help clarify the distinction between reflexive and intensive pronouns.

Q: What is the difference between a reflexive pronoun and an intensive pronoun?

A: A reflexive pronoun is used to refer back to the subject of a sentence or clause, indicating that the action is being performed on or by the subject itself. An intensive pronoun, on the other hand, is used to emphasize or add intensity to a noun or pronoun, but it does not change the meaning of the sentence.

Q: Can a pronoun be both reflexive and intensive?

A: While a pronoun can be used in a way that suggests both reflexive and intensive meanings, it is generally not possible for a pronoun to be both reflexive and intensive at the same time. The context and intended meaning of the sentence will determine whether the pronoun is being used as a reflexive or intensive pronoun.

Q: How can I determine whether a pronoun is reflexive or intensive?

A: To determine whether a pronoun is reflexive or intensive, look at the context of the sentence and the intended meaning. Ask yourself whether the pronoun is referring back to the subject of the sentence or whether it is being used to emphasize the subject.

Q: Can a reflexive pronoun be used as an intensive pronoun?

A: While a reflexive pronoun can be used in a way that suggests an intensive meaning, it is generally not possible to use a reflexive pronoun as an intensive pronoun in the classical sense. However, in some cases, a reflexive pronoun can be used to add emphasis to a sentence, which can be seen as a form of intensive meaning.

Q: Can an intensive pronoun be used as a reflexive pronoun?

A: While an intensive pronoun can be used in a way that suggests a reflexive meaning, it is generally not possible to use an intensive pronoun as a reflexive pronoun in the classical sense. However, in some cases, an intensive pronoun can be used to refer back to the subject of a sentence, which can be seen as a form of reflexive meaning.

Q: What are some examples of reflexive pronouns?

A: Some examples of reflexive pronouns include:

• myself
• yourself
• himself
• herself
• itself
• ourselves
• yourselves
• themselves

Q: What are some examples of intensive pronouns?

A: Some examples of intensive pronouns include:

• myself
• yourself
• himself
• herself
• itself
• ourselves
• yourselves
• themselves

Q: How can I use reflexive and intensive pronouns correctly in my writing?

A: To use reflexive and intensive pronouns correctly in your writing, follow these tips:

• Use reflexive pronouns to refer back to the subject of a sentence or clause.
• Use intensive pronouns to emphasize or add intensity to a noun or pronoun.
• Consider the context and intended meaning of the sentence when choosing between a reflexive and intensive pronoun.
• Use reflexive pronouns to refer back to the subject of a sentence or clause, and use intensive pronouns to emphasize or add intensity to a noun or pronoun.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the bold pronoun "themselves" in the sentence "They built a new house for themselves" can be interpreted in two ways: as a reflexive pronoun or an intensive pronoun. While both interpretations are possible, the context and intended meaning of the sentence suggest that the pronoun is being used as a reflexive pronoun. By understanding the difference between reflexive and intensive pronouns, you can use them correctly in your writing and communicate more effectively with your audience.