Usage of ourselves

[Ingar]

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #40 "Reflexive Pronouns", question 4

His father said again and again if we don't take care, we'd hurt ..........

(a) themselves
(b) yourselves
(c) ourselves

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #40 "Reflexive Pronouns", answer 4

His father said again and again if we don't take care, we'd hurt ourselves.

Correct answer: (c) ourselves
_________________________

why?

Ingar

[Mister Micawber]

.
'Ourselves' is reflexive-- it reflects the action of the verb back onto the subject.

We hurt ourselves.
I saw myself in the mirror.
She bought herself a new bag.
.
_________________
Canadian-American native speaker
who teaches English for a living at Mister Micawber's
ESL cafe: Interview with Mr. Micawber