Themselves Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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themselves
[รฐษmหsษlvz ]
Definition
Context #1 | Pronoun
reflexive pronoun
Used to refer to the people in general, or previously mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition when they are also the subject of the clause.
Examples of usage
- They were talking to themselves in the mirror.
- The students can help themselves to snacks in the break room.
- We should all be able to express ourselves freely.
- The kids need to learn to entertain themselves without screens.
- The team members were congratulating themselves on a job well done.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Studies show that using 'themselves' can encourage self-reflection and autonomy in personal development.
- Reflexive pronouns like 'themselves' can enhance understanding of self-identity in psychological contexts.
- In therapy, talking about 'themselves' can help individuals take ownership of their thoughts and feelings.
Language & Grammar
- Reflexive pronouns are unique because they refer back to the subject of the sentence, emphasizing the action taken by them.
- In English, 'themselves' serves as both a pronoun for plural subjects and a way to express actions done by that group.
- The use of 'themselves' can indicate emphasis or focus in many sentences, highlighting the subject's personal involvement.
Cultural Insights
- In many cultures, the concept of 'self' is central, influencing language and personal identity in diverse ways.
- 'Themselves' reflects a cultural shift towards individualism, where personal identity is celebrated and acknowledged.
- Different languages often express the idea of self-reference, showcasing how cultures view individuality and community.
Literature
- Authors often use 'themselves' to explore themes of identity, emphasizing charactersโ personal journeys.
- In poetry, reflexive pronouns can create depth, allowing writers to express complex emotions and self-dialogue.
- Classic works of literature frequently reveal characters reflecting on 'themselves', revealing inner conflicts and growth.
Origin of 'themselves'
Main points about word origin
- 'Themselves' is a combination of 'them' and the reflexive suffix 'self', showing it refers to the same people.
- The word 'them' has roots in Old Norse, evolving over centuries to include reflexive forms like 'themselves'.
- The use of reflexive pronouns became more common in Middle English, highlighting a growing awareness of self-reference.
The word 'themselves' originated from the Old English word 'heom-sylfum', which means 'to themselves'. Over time, the word evolved to 'hemself', 'hemselfe', and eventually 'themselves' in Middle English. It has been used in English language for centuries to refer to people in a reflexive manner.