Collect oneself Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ง
collect oneself
[หkษlษkt wสnหsษlf ]
Definition
emotional control
To compose or calm oneself, especially after a period of stress or anxiety. It involves taking a moment to gather one's thoughts, emotions, and composure.
Synonyms
calm down, compose oneself, pull oneself together, regain composure.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| collect oneself |
When someone needs a moment to gather their thoughts and emotions, especially after a shock or surprise.
|
| compose oneself |
Used in formal situations where one needs to appear controlled and dignified, often after an emotional experience.
|
| calm down |
When someone is feeling very angry, upset, or stressed, and needs to become more relaxed.
|
| regain composure |
When someone has lost their calm and needs to return to a state of emotional stability and control.
|
| pull oneself together |
When someone is visibly upset or disorganized and needs to regain control over their emotions and actions quickly. Often used with a sense of urgency.
|
Examples of usage
- I needed a minute to collect myself after receiving the shocking news.
- She took a deep breath to collect herself before giving her presentation.
- We all need to collect ourselves before making any decisions.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Psychologists argue that taking a moment to collect oneself can improve decision-making by reducing impulsive reactions.
- Mindfulness practices often emphasize the importance of collecting oneself to enhance emotional resilience.
- Research indicates that brief pauses in stressful situations can lead to more thoughtful responses and better mental health.
Literature
- Various authors have used the phrase in literature to depict characters regaining their composure during critical moments.
- In poetry, the act of collecting oneself is often portrayed as a transformative experience leading to peace and clarity.
- Classic novels often highlight the moment a character collects themselves as an important turning point in the story.
Pop Culture
- The phrase has appeared in films and television shows, often during scenes of emotional turmoil where characters must regain control.
- Self-help books frequently reference the act of collecting oneself as a key strategy for overcoming challenges.
- Social media influencers often promote techniques to help individuals collect themselves during stressful times.
Mindfulness and Wellness
- Collecting oneself is a common principle in mindfulness practices, encouraging awareness of oneโs thoughts and emotions.
- Many wellness coaches teach techniques, like deep breathing, to help individuals collect themselves during overwhelming moments.
- This phrase is often included in personal development workshops focusing on emotional intelligence and self-regulation.
Origin of 'collect oneself'
Main points about word origin
- The phrase 'collect oneself' combines 'collect' from Latin 'colligere', meaning to gather together.
- Historically, the word 'oneself' emphasizes individuality, suggesting a focus on the personal mind and emotions.
- The term has been used since the 19th century, gaining popularity in the context of managing stress and emotions.
The phrase 'collect oneself' originated in the late 18th century and is derived from the Middle English word 'collecten' meaning 'to gather together'. It reflects the idea of gathering one's thoughts and emotions into a cohesive state. Over time, it has become a commonly used expression in English language to describe the act of regaining composure or emotional control.