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My is a word mostly known as a possessive determiner. In this lesson, we will discuss its functions.
Functions of 'My'
Interjection
1. 'My' as a Possessive Determiner
Use
My as a possessive determiner precedes a noun or a noun phrase and generally shows the speaker or the writer possesses or owns something. But it has more uses. Have a look:
My as a possessive determiner is used to show possession or ownership; for example:
My dog is very lazy.
My shows the speaker owns the dog.
My friend and I haven't seen each other for a long time.
My as a possessive determiner is used to show sympathy and affection; for example:
My Roxy is very smart.
My darling, come here.
My as a possessive determiner is used to show surprise or excitement. For example:
Oh my god, I am late!
Oh my goodness, you are here!
Position in a Sentence
My as a possessive determiner always comes before a noun or a noun phrase. For example:
My dog is very lazy.
Oh my god, I am late.
My winning the game felt awesome.
'Winning the game' is a gerund and a noun phrase. 'My winning the game' is the subject of the sentence.
Tip
Articles like 'a', 'an' and, 'the' or other determiners cannot be used before my. Take a look at the following example:
This is my book. ✔ This is a my book.
2. 'My' as an Interjection
Use
My as an interjection is used alone to show surprise or pleasure. Have a look:
Oh my, I'm late for work!
Oh my, you scared me!
Tip
My-my is also another interjection to show emotions but it is dated. For example:
Oh my-my, I am late for work!
Position in a Sentence
My as an interjection is used alone and it must be followed by an exclamation mark.
Oh my, I'm late for work!
Oh my, you scared me!
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