A1pronoun1K

Yourself

UK /["/jɔːˈself//jəˈself/","/jɔːˈselvz//jəˈselvz/"]/US /["/jɔːrˈself//jʊrˈself//jərˈself/","/jɔːrˈselvz//jʊrˈselvz//jərˈselvz/"]/

Definition

used when the person or people being spoken to both cause and are affected by an action

In simple words: You, when talking about what you do or feel.

Examples

  • You should take some time for yourself today.
  • Make sure to be honest with yourself.
  • Don't forget to treat yourself every once in a while.
  • You can be whoever you want to be; just be yourself.
  • It's important to love yourself for who you are.

Usage notes

Used for emphasis or reflection. Appropriate in most contexts, but avoid in overly formal writing.

Grammar pattern

yourself + verb (actions)

Memory hint

Think of 'your self' as your inner person, like a mirror reflecting back.

Collocations

  • be yourself
  • for yourself
  • love yourself

Synonyms

  • your own self
  • oneself

Antonyms

  • someone else
  • others

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'yourselves' (plural form).
  • Omitting 'your' in reflexive use (e.g., saying 'look at self' instead of 'look at yourself').