Reciprocal pronouns are pronouns that indicate mutual action or relationship between two or more people or things. They reflect a reciprocal or mutual relationship among the subjects or objects in a sentence.
Examples of Reciprocal Pronouns:
1. Each other: Used when referring to two people or things.
Example:
- Sarah and David smiled at each other across the crowded room.
- The cats groomed each other affectionately while lounging in the sun.
- In a healthy relationship, partners should listen to each other attentively.
- The two rival teams shook hands with each other after the intense match.
- The siblings often bickered, but they always forgave each other quickly.
2. One another: Similar to “each other” but used in more formal contexts or when referring to more than two people or things.
Example:
- Sarah and John smiled at one another as they walked hand in hand.
- The two siblings often argue with one another over trivial matters.
- The old friends reminisced about their childhood adventures with one another.
- The neighbors frequently borrow tools from one another to complete their projects.
- After the meeting, the colleagues exchanged business cards with one another to stay in touch.
3.Themsel(f/ves): Reflects action or relationship back to the subjects themselves.
Example:
- The children amused themselves by playing games in the backyard.
- After the argument, they resolved the issue among themselves without any external intervention.
- The performers congratulated themselves on a successful concert.
- The students challenged themselves to achieve higher grades in the next semester.
- The kittens cleaned themselves meticulously after their playful romp in the garden.
Our(selves): Demonstrates reciprocal action involving “we” or “us.”
Example:
- We decided to handle the project ourselves without seeking external help.
- Let’s not rely on others; we can solve this problem ourselves.
- We enjoyed the camping trip immensely, especially since we cooked all the meals ourselves.
- Despite the challenges, we managed to redecorate the entire house ourselves.
- We must hold ourselves accountable for our actions and strive for self-improvement every day.
These reciprocal pronouns are essential in indicating mutual actions or relationships between subjects or objects in sentences, enriching the depth of communication.
Related Articles: Essential English Grammar: In Simple Way