The word "reflexive" is spelled with three syllables: "re-fleck-siv". The first syllable "re-" is pronounced with a short "e" sound, followed by "fleck", which rhymes with the word "check". The final syllable "-siv" is pronounced with a long "i" sound followed by a short "v" sound. The phonetic transcription for "reflexive" is /rɪˈflɛksɪv/. This word is commonly used in grammar to describe verbs in which the subject performs the action on themselves.
Reflexive is an adjective that refers to something being automatic, immediate, or instinctive in nature. It can be used to describe actions, behaviors, or processes that occur without conscious thought or effort. Reflexive actions are automatically triggered by a stimulus or event, often as a natural response to a particular situation.
In grammar, reflexive is used to describe certain pronouns and verbs that express an action or state directed towards oneself. Reflexive pronouns, such as "myself," "yourself," or "itself," are used when the subject and the object of a sentence are the same entity. For instance, in the sentence, "I hurt myself," the reflexive pronoun "myself" indicates that the action of hurting was done by the subject (I) to oneself.
In psychology, the term reflexive can refer to a type of self-awareness or self-reflection. It describes an individual's ability to introspect, analyze their own thoughts and feelings, and gain insight into their own behavior. This ability to be reflexive enables people to learn from their experiences, make informed decisions, and understand themselves better.
In general, reflexive implies a natural and involuntary response, an action or behavior that occurs without conscious thought, or a form of self-reference or introspection. It is often associated with automatic reactions, self-analysis, and self-awareness.
Bending or turned backward; having respect to something past.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "reflexive" originates from the Latin term "reflexivus", which comes from the verb "reflectere", meaning "to bend back" or "to turn back". This verb is a combination of the prefix "re-" which denotes repetition or action going back, and the verb "flectere" meaning "to bend" or "to turn". Hence, "reflexivus" in Latin means "bent back" or "turned back". Through the influence of Latin, the word entered into English, maintaining its meaning of something that turns or bends back upon itself. In the context of grammar, "reflexive" is used to describe a pronoun or verb that refers back to the subject of a sentence.