Ourselves vs We

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

 OurselvesWe
MeaningWe (people) by our own action or choices.It means you and others.
CEFR levelA2A1
Part of speechpronounpronoun
Usage notesUse 'ourselves' when referring back to a group including the speaker. It's more common in reflective or self-referential contexts. Avoid in overly formal writing.Used when talking about a group that includes the speaker. Less appropriate in formal writing where specific subjects should be named.

Frequently asked questions: Ourselves vs We

What's the difference between "Ourselves" and "We"?

"Ourselves" means: We (people) by our own action or choices. "We" means: It means you and others.

When should I use "Ourselves" and "We"?

They can all be used in everyday English.

Are "Ourselves" and "We" the same CEFR level?

"Ourselves" is at A2, "We" is at A1 on the CEFR scale.

Related comparisons