Optional Reflexive Pronouns in English

English allows optional reflexive pronouns. These are pronouns which can be expressed with either a reflexive or object pronoun.  Let us look at a few examples.

In the following sentences either an object pronoun or reflexive pronoun can be used:

Michael saw a snake near him/himself.
Lisa wrapped the blanket around her/herself.
They saw a picture of them/themselves.
I pushed him away from me/myself.

When the object pronoun is used, the sentence is ambiguous. It can refer either to the subject or to another person. With the reflexive, no ambiguity occurs because it must refer to the subject of the sentence. However, the context in which the sentence is made usually makes the meaning clear.

In certain cases only the object pronoun can be used. Here are examples:

You can bring someone with you.
He has no money on him.
She pressed him to her.
Ellen put all her problems behind her.
Jack has a whole week of travel before him. 

Here it is clear that the object pronoun refers to the subject. No other interpretation is possible. Unlike in the earlier examples, here the pronoun cannot be replaced with another.

The English language allows optional reflexive pronouns. When the reflexive is used, it is clear that the pronoun refers to the antecedent, the subject of the sentence. However, in certain cases, when only one pronoun can be used in the prepositional phrase, this is an object pronoun.