Today, we shall round off our discussion on intensive pronouns. (Why didn’t I say ‘round up’ instead of ‘round off’?) Remember, intensive pronouns add emphasis/importance to the subject or object of the clause. As noted last week, however, they do not perform the function of the duo, that is subject and object. So, the following sentences, in which the intensive pronouns appear, are correct:I myself am tired.They themselves know the truth.He believes Sidi herself knows she committed an error.On the other hand, the following are incorrect:Myself is tired.Themselves know the truth.Herself and her mum know the truth.It is for him and yourself.When myself, himself receives the action Based on the rule invoked above, a question is still eager to ask itself: isn’t there any context in which myself, himself, herself, yourself, itself, ourselves and themselves can take the position of the subject or object? The answer is: there is. But when it does, the grammatical status and name changes. Particularly when it works as the object, it is called a reflexive pronoun. Here are examples of reflexive pronouns which though have the same forms as intensive ones:I injured myself. She blamed herself for arriving late.They saw themselves in the photo.The dog entrapped itself while trying to manipulate the chicken.You will hurt yourself if you keep thinking about him.In the sentences, myself, herself, themselves, itself and yourself are the objects, directly receiving the actions. But in this instance they are no more called intensive or emphatic pronouns; they are reflexive pronouns. The following examples explain when the terms are reflexive and when they are not:Related NewsDefence minister denies resignation rumoursInflation above 30% in 19 states, FCT despite national easingCitizen Mary: The burden of non-disclosureI love myself. (Correct. ‘Myself’ is a reflexive pronoun receiving the action performed by the fellow himself.)She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded I myself am tired.They themselves know the truth.He believes Sidi herself knows she committed an error.On the other hand, the following are incorrect:Myself is tired.Themselves know the truth.Herself and her mum know the truth.It is for him and yourself.When myself, himself receives the action Based on the rule invoked above, a question is still eager to ask itself: isn’t there any context in which myself, himself, herself, yourself, itself, ourselves and themselves can take the position of the subject or object? The answer is: there is. But when it does, the grammatical status and name changes. Particularly when it works as the object, it is called a reflexive pronoun. Here are examples of reflexive pronouns which though have the same forms as intensive ones:I injured myself. She blamed herself for arriving late.They saw themselves in the photo.The dog entrapped itself while trying to manipulate the chicken.You will hurt yourself if you keep thinking about him.In the sentences, myself, herself, themselves, itself and yourself are the objects, directly receiving the actions. But in this instance they are no more called intensive or emphatic pronouns; they are reflexive pronouns. The following examples explain when the terms are reflexive and when they are not:Related NewsDefence minister denies resignation rumoursInflation above 30% in 19 states, FCT despite national easingCitizen Mary: The burden of non-disclosureI love myself. (Correct. ‘Myself’ is a reflexive pronoun receiving the action performed by the fellow himself.)She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded They themselves know the truth.He believes Sidi herself knows she committed an error.On the other hand, the following are incorrect:Myself is tired.Themselves know the truth.Herself and her mum know the truth.It is for him and yourself.When myself, himself receives the action Based on the rule invoked above, a question is still eager to ask itself: isn’t there any context in which myself, himself, herself, yourself, itself, ourselves and themselves can take the position of the subject or object? The answer is: there is. But when it does, the grammatical status and name changes. Particularly when it works as the object, it is called a reflexive pronoun. Here are examples of reflexive pronouns which though have the same forms as intensive ones:I injured myself. She blamed herself for arriving late.They saw themselves in the photo.The dog entrapped itself while trying to manipulate the chicken.You will hurt yourself if you keep thinking about him.In the sentences, myself, herself, themselves, itself and yourself are the objects, directly receiving the actions. But in this instance they are no more called intensive or emphatic pronouns; they are reflexive pronouns. The following examples explain when the terms are reflexive and when they are not:Related NewsDefence minister denies resignation rumoursInflation above 30% in 19 states, FCT despite national easingCitizen Mary: The burden of non-disclosureI love myself. (Correct. ‘Myself’ is a reflexive pronoun receiving the action performed by the fellow himself.)She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded He believes Sidi herself knows she committed an error.On the other hand, the following are incorrect:Myself is tired.Themselves know the truth.Herself and her mum know the truth.It is for him and yourself.When myself, himself receives the action Based on the rule invoked above, a question is still eager to ask itself: isn’t there any context in which myself, himself, herself, yourself, itself, ourselves and themselves can take the position of the subject or object? The answer is: there is. But when it does, the grammatical status and name changes. Particularly when it works as the object, it is called a reflexive pronoun. Here are examples of reflexive pronouns which though have the same forms as intensive ones:I injured myself. She blamed herself for arriving late.They saw themselves in the photo.The dog entrapped itself while trying to manipulate the chicken.You will hurt yourself if you keep thinking about him.In the sentences, myself, herself, themselves, itself and yourself are the objects, directly receiving the actions. But in this instance they are no more called intensive or emphatic pronouns; they are reflexive pronouns. The following examples explain when the terms are reflexive and when they are not:Related NewsDefence minister denies resignation rumoursInflation above 30% in 19 states, FCT despite national easingCitizen Mary: The burden of non-disclosureI love myself. (Correct. ‘Myself’ is a reflexive pronoun receiving the action performed by the fellow himself.)She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded On the other hand, the following are incorrect:Myself is tired.Themselves know the truth.Herself and her mum know the truth.It is for him and yourself.When myself, himself receives the action Based on the rule invoked above, a question is still eager to ask itself: isn’t there any context in which myself, himself, herself, yourself, itself, ourselves and themselves can take the position of the subject or object? The answer is: there is. But when it does, the grammatical status and name changes. Particularly when it works as the object, it is called a reflexive pronoun. Here are examples of reflexive pronouns which though have the same forms as intensive ones:I injured myself. She blamed herself for arriving late.They saw themselves in the photo.The dog entrapped itself while trying to manipulate the chicken.You will hurt yourself if you keep thinking about him.In the sentences, myself, herself, themselves, itself and yourself are the objects, directly receiving the actions. But in this instance they are no more called intensive or emphatic pronouns; they are reflexive pronouns. The following examples explain when the terms are reflexive and when they are not:Related NewsDefence minister denies resignation rumoursInflation above 30% in 19 states, FCT despite national easingCitizen Mary: The burden of non-disclosureI love myself. (Correct. ‘Myself’ is a reflexive pronoun receiving the action performed by the fellow himself.)She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded Myself is tired.Themselves know the truth.Herself and her mum know the truth.It is for him and yourself.When myself, himself receives the action Based on the rule invoked above, a question is still eager to ask itself: isn’t there any context in which myself, himself, herself, yourself, itself, ourselves and themselves can take the position of the subject or object? The answer is: there is. But when it does, the grammatical status and name changes. Particularly when it works as the object, it is called a reflexive pronoun. Here are examples of reflexive pronouns which though have the same forms as intensive ones:I injured myself. She blamed herself for arriving late.They saw themselves in the photo.The dog entrapped itself while trying to manipulate the chicken.You will hurt yourself if you keep thinking about him.In the sentences, myself, herself, themselves, itself and yourself are the objects, directly receiving the actions. But in this instance they are no more called intensive or emphatic pronouns; they are reflexive pronouns. The following examples explain when the terms are reflexive and when they are not:Related NewsDefence minister denies resignation rumoursInflation above 30% in 19 states, FCT despite national easingCitizen Mary: The burden of non-disclosureI love myself. (Correct. ‘Myself’ is a reflexive pronoun receiving the action performed by the fellow himself.)She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded Themselves know the truth.Herself and her mum know the truth.It is for him and yourself.When myself, himself receives the action Based on the rule invoked above, a question is still eager to ask itself: isn’t there any context in which myself, himself, herself, yourself, itself, ourselves and themselves can take the position of the subject or object? The answer is: there is. But when it does, the grammatical status and name changes. Particularly when it works as the object, it is called a reflexive pronoun. Here are examples of reflexive pronouns which though have the same forms as intensive ones:I injured myself. She blamed herself for arriving late.They saw themselves in the photo.The dog entrapped itself while trying to manipulate the chicken.You will hurt yourself if you keep thinking about him.In the sentences, myself, herself, themselves, itself and yourself are the objects, directly receiving the actions. But in this instance they are no more called intensive or emphatic pronouns; they are reflexive pronouns. The following examples explain when the terms are reflexive and when they are not:Related NewsDefence minister denies resignation rumoursInflation above 30% in 19 states, FCT despite national easingCitizen Mary: The burden of non-disclosureI love myself. (Correct. ‘Myself’ is a reflexive pronoun receiving the action performed by the fellow himself.)She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded Herself and her mum know the truth.It is for him and yourself.When myself, himself receives the action Based on the rule invoked above, a question is still eager to ask itself: isn’t there any context in which myself, himself, herself, yourself, itself, ourselves and themselves can take the position of the subject or object? The answer is: there is. But when it does, the grammatical status and name changes. Particularly when it works as the object, it is called a reflexive pronoun. Here are examples of reflexive pronouns which though have the same forms as intensive ones:I injured myself. She blamed herself for arriving late.They saw themselves in the photo.The dog entrapped itself while trying to manipulate the chicken.You will hurt yourself if you keep thinking about him.In the sentences, myself, herself, themselves, itself and yourself are the objects, directly receiving the actions. But in this instance they are no more called intensive or emphatic pronouns; they are reflexive pronouns. The following examples explain when the terms are reflexive and when they are not:Related NewsDefence minister denies resignation rumoursInflation above 30% in 19 states, FCT despite national easingCitizen Mary: The burden of non-disclosureI love myself. (Correct. ‘Myself’ is a reflexive pronoun receiving the action performed by the fellow himself.)She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded It is for him and yourself.When myself, himself receives the action Based on the rule invoked above, a question is still eager to ask itself: isn’t there any context in which myself, himself, herself, yourself, itself, ourselves and themselves can take the position of the subject or object? The answer is: there is. But when it does, the grammatical status and name changes. Particularly when it works as the object, it is called a reflexive pronoun. Here are examples of reflexive pronouns which though have the same forms as intensive ones:I injured myself. She blamed herself for arriving late.They saw themselves in the photo.The dog entrapped itself while trying to manipulate the chicken.You will hurt yourself if you keep thinking about him.In the sentences, myself, herself, themselves, itself and yourself are the objects, directly receiving the actions. But in this instance they are no more called intensive or emphatic pronouns; they are reflexive pronouns. The following examples explain when the terms are reflexive and when they are not:Related NewsDefence minister denies resignation rumoursInflation above 30% in 19 states, FCT despite national easingCitizen Mary: The burden of non-disclosureI love myself. (Correct. ‘Myself’ is a reflexive pronoun receiving the action performed by the fellow himself.)She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded When myself, himself receives the action Based on the rule invoked above, a question is still eager to ask itself: isn’t there any context in which myself, himself, herself, yourself, itself, ourselves and themselves can take the position of the subject or object? The answer is: there is. But when it does, the grammatical status and name changes. Particularly when it works as the object, it is called a reflexive pronoun. Here are examples of reflexive pronouns which though have the same forms as intensive ones:I injured myself. She blamed herself for arriving late.They saw themselves in the photo.The dog entrapped itself while trying to manipulate the chicken.You will hurt yourself if you keep thinking about him.In the sentences, myself, herself, themselves, itself and yourself are the objects, directly receiving the actions. But in this instance they are no more called intensive or emphatic pronouns; they are reflexive pronouns. The following examples explain when the terms are reflexive and when they are not:Related NewsDefence minister denies resignation rumoursInflation above 30% in 19 states, FCT despite national easingCitizen Mary: The burden of non-disclosureI love myself. (Correct. ‘Myself’ is a reflexive pronoun receiving the action performed by the fellow himself.)She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded I injured myself. She blamed herself for arriving late.They saw themselves in the photo.The dog entrapped itself while trying to manipulate the chicken.You will hurt yourself if you keep thinking about him.In the sentences, myself, herself, themselves, itself and yourself are the objects, directly receiving the actions. But in this instance they are no more called intensive or emphatic pronouns; they are reflexive pronouns. The following examples explain when the terms are reflexive and when they are not:Related NewsDefence minister denies resignation rumoursInflation above 30% in 19 states, FCT despite national easingCitizen Mary: The burden of non-disclosureI love myself. (Correct. ‘Myself’ is a reflexive pronoun receiving the action performed by the fellow himself.)She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded They saw themselves in the photo.The dog entrapped itself while trying to manipulate the chicken.You will hurt yourself if you keep thinking about him.In the sentences, myself, herself, themselves, itself and yourself are the objects, directly receiving the actions. But in this instance they are no more called intensive or emphatic pronouns; they are reflexive pronouns. The following examples explain when the terms are reflexive and when they are not:Related NewsDefence minister denies resignation rumoursInflation above 30% in 19 states, FCT despite national easingCitizen Mary: The burden of non-disclosureI love myself. (Correct. ‘Myself’ is a reflexive pronoun receiving the action performed by the fellow himself.)She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded The dog entrapped itself while trying to manipulate the chicken.You will hurt yourself if you keep thinking about him.In the sentences, myself, herself, themselves, itself and yourself are the objects, directly receiving the actions. But in this instance they are no more called intensive or emphatic pronouns; they are reflexive pronouns. The following examples explain when the terms are reflexive and when they are not:Related NewsDefence minister denies resignation rumoursInflation above 30% in 19 states, FCT despite national easingCitizen Mary: The burden of non-disclosureI love myself. (Correct. ‘Myself’ is a reflexive pronoun receiving the action performed by the fellow himself.)She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded You will hurt yourself if you keep thinking about him.In the sentences, myself, herself, themselves, itself and yourself are the objects, directly receiving the actions. But in this instance they are no more called intensive or emphatic pronouns; they are reflexive pronouns. The following examples explain when the terms are reflexive and when they are not:Related NewsDefence minister denies resignation rumoursInflation above 30% in 19 states, FCT despite national easingCitizen Mary: The burden of non-disclosureI love myself. (Correct. ‘Myself’ is a reflexive pronoun receiving the action performed by the fellow himself.)She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded In the sentences, myself, herself, themselves, itself and yourself are the objects, directly receiving the actions. But in this instance they are no more called intensive or emphatic pronouns; they are reflexive pronouns. The following examples explain when the terms are reflexive and when they are not:Related NewsDefence minister denies resignation rumoursInflation above 30% in 19 states, FCT despite national easingCitizen Mary: The burden of non-disclosureI love myself. (Correct. ‘Myself’ is a reflexive pronoun receiving the action performed by the fellow himself.)She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded I love myself. (Correct. ‘Myself’ is a reflexive pronoun receiving the action performed by the fellow himself.)She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded She loves myself. (Wrong because ‘myself’ could no more function as an object since it is another person who performed the action.)She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded She loves me. (Very correct!)Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded Themselves or each other?In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded In answering this question, let us first get the difference between ‘They slapped themselves’ and ‘They slapped each other’. While the latter is easily understandable and correct, the first (They slapped themselves) is likely to be wrong or wrongly used. It is likely to be wrong because it is rare to see a group of people intentionally and collectively slapping themselves. Yet, it can happen in theatrical circumstances, including at some of those religious gatherings where controversial clerics or priests instruct the congregation to take some unusual actions.That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded That allusion apart, what folks often have in mind in the situation is ‘They slapped each other or one another’. This is correct when the action is mutual and exchanged between or among those involved, depending on the number. This is the concept of reciprocal pronouns in action. So, when you say ‘They are looking at each other’, you are no more in the realm of intensive and reflexive pronouns but in the reciprocal. We are going to cite examples of contexts where reciprocal pronouns and the reflexive can conflict, so that you will be careful choosing the right one:They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded They looked at each other. (Reciprocal because the action is exchanged.)They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded They looked at themselves. (More of the reflexive because they are receiving an action taken by themselves.)We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded We congratulated each other. (Reciprocal)We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded We congratulate ourselves. (Reflexive)Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded Tinubu and Shettima respect each other. (Reciprocal)Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded Tinubu and Shettima respect themselves. (Reflexive)This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded This means that both ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect each other’ and ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ are correct, but with different meanings. The first means that Shettima respects Tinubu while, despite t that Tinubu is the boss, he also respects him. . However, ‘Shettima and Tinubu respect themselves’ means that they individually or collectively carry themselves in a way that will not injure or stain their personalities and offices. Lesson: Do not mix up intensive, reflexive and reciprocal pronouns. Do not say ‘They are abusing themselves’ when you mean ‘They are abusing each other’.Concluded Concluded