When it comes to discussing oneself in English, many people are unsure about the correct usage of pronouns and reflexive forms. A common point of confusion arises with phrases like about themselves and about theirselves. Understanding which form is correct and why can improve both written and spoken communication. These distinctions are important not only for grammar accuracy but also for clarity and professionalism in writing. By exploring the proper usage, historical context, and practical examples, it becomes easier to communicate effectively when referring to a person’s own experiences, thoughts, or opinions.
Understanding Reflexive Pronouns
Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject and the object of a sentence refer to the same person or group. In English, reflexive pronouns include myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, ourselves, yourselves, and themselves. These pronouns are essential for indicating that the action of the verb is directed back toward the subject. For example, in the sentence They introduced themselves at the meeting, the reflexive pronoun themselves refers back to the subject they. Using reflexive pronouns correctly is a fundamental aspect of English grammar.
Correct Usage Themselves vs. Theirselves
The standard and grammatically correct form in modern English is themselves. The word theirselves is considered nonstandard and is rarely used in formal writing. While theirselves appeared occasionally in older English texts, it has largely fallen out of use and is not recommended in contemporary grammar. Therefore, when referring to multiple people reflecting back on their own actions or attributes, themselves should always be used. For instance, The students wrote essays about themselves is correct, while about theirselves is not.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
Many English learners and even native speakers occasionally use theirselves mistakenly, often thinking it mirrors the formation of other reflexive pronouns like yourself or ourselves. However, English has irregular forms, and themselves does not follow a regular pattern like their + selves. Misusing theirselves can lead to confusion and may be considered incorrect in formal contexts such as academic writing, professional emails, or publications. Understanding these nuances is key to maintaining grammatical accuracy.
Examples of Correct Usage
Here are some examples demonstrating the proper use of about themselves
- The employees were asked to write a short paragraph about themselves for the company newsletter.
- During the workshop, participants shared their experiences and spoke openly about themselves.
- Authors often include a biography section about themselves at the beginning or end of their books.
- It is important for individuals to reflect honestly about themselves to achieve personal growth.
Historical Context of Theirselves
The word theirselves was used sporadically in Middle and Early Modern English. Writers in the 16th and 17th centuries sometimes employed theirselves as an alternative to themselves. Over time, however, standardization of English grammar led to themselves becoming the accepted form. Dictionaries and grammar guides now categorize theirselves as archaic or nonstandard. While it may appear in historical texts or literary works, it is generally avoided in contemporary writing.
Practical Implications
Using about themselves correctly has practical implications in education, business, and communication. Students writing essays or personal statements must ensure proper reflexive pronoun usage to convey professionalism. Similarly, employees creating profiles, reports, or presentations should adhere to standard grammar to avoid misunderstandings or perceptions of carelessness. Clear and correct language usage enhances credibility, ensures clarity, and prevents distractions caused by nonstandard forms such as theirselves.
Tips for Remembering the Correct Form
To avoid mistakes with reflexive pronouns, consider the following tips
- Always use themselves when referring to multiple people reflecting on their own actions.
- Remember that English has irregular forms, so patterns like their + selves are not always correct.
- Check grammar guides or dictionaries if unsure about a reflexive pronoun.
- Practice writing sentences with reflexive pronouns to reinforce correct usage in context.
- Read contemporary literature, topics, or essays to see proper reflexive pronoun usage in action.
Why It Matters
Correct use of about themselves demonstrates attention to detail, a strong grasp of grammar, and respect for standard language conventions. In both written and spoken English, proper usage ensures that your meaning is conveyed clearly and professionally. Using nonstandard forms like theirselves may confuse readers or listeners and can undermine credibility. By consistently applying standard grammar rules, individuals can communicate effectively and confidently across various contexts.
When referring to people reflecting on their own actions, experiences, or traits, about themselves is the correct and widely accepted form in English. The use of theirselves is outdated and considered nonstandard, making it inappropriate for formal writing or professional communication. Understanding reflexive pronouns, avoiding common mistakes, and practicing proper usage ensures clear, accurate, and professional language. By focusing on about themselves, individuals can confidently express thoughts related to personal reflection, self-description, and narrative perspective without risking grammatical errors. Overall, mastering this aspect of English grammar contributes to stronger communication skills, clearer writing, and a more polished expression of ideas about oneself.