Reflexive Phrases

To make a reflexive phrase (One does something to oneself), the noun خود (self) is coupled with the possessive pronouns in an اضافه construction: This is then simply used in the same manner as any other object in any sentence. The reflexive structure can be very useful in clarifying sentences where there could otherwise be more than one translation. For instance, in the third person (both singular and plural) the use of pronomial suffixes creates an ambiguity which may only be avoided with the help of خود. Compare: Note that the combination which uses the possessive suffixes is only common in spoken language. In written language, these pronomial suffixes are not used.

When خود is added between the noun and the pronomial suffix, the possessive meaning is more emphasised. Compare: