Something that's done automatically, without thought, is reflexive. Things that refer to themselves can also be called reflexive, especially certain parts of grammar, as in this sentence: "I took extra time to …

Mar 13, 2026 · "Equals" is a reflexive relation, as it holds for all possible x; "not less" is non-reflexive because it is true only for some x and y, "unequal" is irreflexive, as it never holds between x and itself.

automatic, habitual, unthinking, etc. a smile that seemed merely reflexive, not heartfelt

reflexive adjective (MOVEMENT) done because of a physical reaction that you cannot control:

Definition of reflexive adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Define reflexive. reflexive synonyms, reflexive pronunciation, reflexive translation, English dictionary definition of reflexive. adj. 1. Directed back on itself.

reflexive, adj. & n. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary

The meaning of REFLEXIVE is directed or turned back on itself; also : overtly and usually ironically reflecting conventions of genre or form. How to use reflexive in a sentence.

• At birth, an infant has no awareness of objects other than on a reflexive level. • Here the reflexive pronoun himself marks the fact that him has the same denotation as the subject of the verb, John.

In “I hurt myself,” the verb “hurt” is reflexive. In the sentence “We forced ourselves to finish the assignment,” the word “ourselves” is a reflexive pronoun.