The Importance of Reflexive Pronouns: A Case for "Himself" ##
The correct reflexive pronoun in the sentence "He looked at ___ in the mirror" is himself. Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject of a verb is also the object of the verb. In this case, the subject is "he" and the object is the person he is looking at, which is also "he." Reflexive pronouns are essential for clear and concise writing. They help us avoid ambiguity and ensure that the meaning of a sentence is clear. Using the correct reflexive pronoun, like "himself" in this example, demonstrates a strong understanding of grammar and enhances the overall quality of writing. Why "himself" is the correct choice: * Subject-Object Agreement: "Himself" reflects the subject "he" and clarifies that the action of looking is directed back at the same person. * Clarity and Precision: Using "himself" eliminates any confusion about who is being looked at. In conclusion, understanding and correctly using reflexive pronouns is crucial for effective communication. By choosing the right pronoun, we ensure that our writing is clear, concise, and grammatically sound.