Self Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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self
[sษlf ]
Definitions
referring to the subject of a sentence
A person's essential being that distinguishes them from others, especially considered as the object of introspection or reflexive action.
Synonyms
me, myself, ones own self, oneself, the author, the speaker.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| self |
Used in a philosophical or psychological context to refer to one's entire being, identity, or individuality.
|
| me |
Used as a personal pronoun in everyday conversation to refer to oneself as the object of a verb or preposition.
|
| myself |
Used for emphasis or to refer back to the subject of the sentence when it is the same person; often used reflexively or for emphasis.
|
Examples of usage
- I need to work on improving myself.
- I can't believe I let myself down like that.
- She is always true to herself.
individual's identity or character
One's own individuality or essence.
Synonyms
character, essence, identity, individuality, personality.
Examples of usage
- She has a strong sense of self.
- He is confident in himself.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- The concept of 'self' has puzzled thinkers for centuries, with philosophers debating whether our identity is constant or changes over time.
- Renรฉ Descartes famously said, 'I think, therefore I am,' highlighting thinking as key to one's existence.
- Existentialists like Jean-Paul Sartre argued that people create their own essence, suggesting that 'self' is shaped by choices and experiences.
Psychology
- Self-concept refers to how we perceive ourselves, which can influence our behavior and relationships.
- Carl Rogers, a humanistic psychologist, emphasized the importance of self-actualization, where individuals strive to fulfill their potential.
- The 'self' can be divided into various components, including self-esteem, self-awareness, and self-identity, each playing a role in mental health.
Cultural Perspectives
- In some Eastern cultures, the concept of self is often intertwined with community and family, emphasizing interconnectedness over individuality.
- In contrast, Western cultures typically promote personal autonomy and the idea of individualism, viewing each person as a separate entity.
- Many indigenous cultures view the self in relation to the environment, understanding personal identity as a part of a larger ecological system.
Literature
- In literature, the exploration of 'self' often involves characters undergoing journeys of self-discovery, as seen in novels like 'The Catcher in the Rye'.
- Famous works, such as Virginia Woolf's 'To the Lighthouse', delve into the complexities of individual perspectives and inner thoughts.
- Poets like Walt Whitman celebrated the 'self' within the context of the collective human experience, showcasing the duality of individuality and universality.
Science
- Neuroscience shows that the concept of 'self' is linked to brain activity in specific regions, indicating it has a biological basis.
- Studies in psychology suggest that having a strong sense of self can improve resilience, helping individuals cope with stress and challenges.
- Mirror neurons in the brain are thought to contribute to our understanding of ourselves by connecting with the feelings and actions of others.
Origin of 'self'
The word 'self' originated from Old English 'sylf', meaning 'one's own person, -self'. It has roots in Proto-Germanic and is related to the Dutch 'zelf' and the German 'selb'. The concept of self has been a topic of philosophical and psychological discussion for centuries, exploring the nature of individual identity and consciousness.
See also: selfhood, selfish, selfless, selflessly, selflessness, unselfish, unselfishly.