Reflexive pronouns as objects of prepositions

Reflexive pronouns can occur after prepositions which often follow verbs, nouns or adjectives [> Apps 27-29]:

Look after yourself!

Lucy's looking very pleased with herself or in combination with adverb particles: the reflexive comes between the verb and the particle [> 8.28]:

We gave ourselves up

We pulled ourselves out (of the water)

4 Pronouns

Myself is sometimes used (unnecessarily) instead of me or I: They sent invitations to Geoff and myself (me is preferable) Kate and myself think (Kate and I. is preferable)

Reflexives also occur in a few idiomatic expressions, such as: Strictly between ourselves, do you think she's sane? In itself his illness is nothing to worry about

In all other cases we use object pronouns after prepositions when the

reference is to place or after with-.

I haven't got any money on me (Not *myself*) There was a bus in front of us (Not "ourselves*) Did you bring any money with you?

By + reflexive means 'unaided' or 'alone': Susie made this doll's dress all by herself (= unaided) He lives by himself (= alone)

Reflexives can be used for emphasis after e.g. but and than-. You can blame no one but yourself (= except yourself) Harry would like to marry a girl younger than himself

After some prepositions we can use either form of pronoun: / think this new magazine is aimed at people like us/ourselves Who's prepared to work overtime besides me/myself⁹