Word
reflexive
Phoneticsre·flex·ive, stress on the second syllable
US/ɹəˈfɫɛksɪv/
UK/ɹɪflˈɛksɪv/
Definition
n. a word or phrase that refers back to the subject of the sentence. It is used when the person performing the action is also the one receiving it.
n. a pronoun or phrase that refers back to the subject of the clause or sentence. In grammar, it indicates that the action of the verb is directed back at the subject.
Examples
“In many languages, the reflexive form is necessary to indicate that the subject is performing the action on itself, rather than on a separate object.”
Examples
complex
“In many languages, the reflexive form is necessary to indicate that the subject is performing the action on itself, rather than on a separate object.”
Real-World Examples
“While reflexive support for Israel was once a prerequisite for anyone running for office, in some districts it has increasingly become a liability.” “As an American soccer community, we have developed a reflexive recoil against the Godding up of yet another prodigy.” Etymology
From Medieval Latin reflexīvus, from Latin reflexus, equivalent to reflex + -ive.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Related words
Domains
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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