Understanding "Themselves" vs "Theirselves": A Clear Guide to Proper Usage

In the world of English, even seasoned speakers can trip over the nuances of pronouns, particularly when it comes to “themselves” and “theirselves.” This common confusion often leaves learners scratching their heads, unsure of which term to use in various contexts. Understanding the distinction between these two terms is crucial, as it not only enhances clarity in communication but also reflects a deeper grasp of the language. In this article, we will unravel the intricacies of “themselves” and “theirselves,” providing clear explanations and examples to help you navigate this tricky aspect of English with confidence.

Themselves and theirselves are both reflexive pronouns, but they are used differently in English. The term themselves is the standard reflexive pronoun used to refer back to the plural noun or pronoun (they, them) in both American and British English. For example, “They made the decision themselves.” In contrast, theirselves is a nonstandard variant primarily used in some regional dialects, particularly in parts of the United Kingdom and among some speakers in the U.S. It is generally considered informal and is often discouraged in formal writing. Therefore, while themselves is widely accepted and understood, theirselves may be recognized in specific contexts but lacks the same level of acceptance. Always prefer themselves for clarity and correctness, especially in formal situations.

What Do ‘Themselves vs Theirselves’ Mean?

The terms ‘themselves’ and ‘theirselves’ are both reflexive pronouns used in the English language. Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject and the object of a sentence refer to the same person or group. ‘Themselves’ is the standard reflexive form used in both written and spoken English, whereas ‘theirselves’ is considered nonstandard and is primarily used in certain dialects or informal speech.

For example, you might say, “They prepared themselves for the exam,” where ‘themselves’ refers back to ‘they.’ In contrast, you might hear someone say, “They just want to be happy with theirselves,” which is less formal and not widely accepted in standard English. Understanding the difference between these two terms is essential for clear, effective communication.

‘Themselves vs Theirselves’: The Differences

While both ‘themselves’ and ‘theirselves’ serve similar grammatical functions, their usage varies significantly across different regions and contexts. ‘Themselves’ is universally recognized and used in all forms of English, making it the preferred choice in formal writing and speech. On the other hand, ‘theirselves’ is often found in specific regional dialects, particularly in some areas of the United States and among certain English-speaking communities.

For instance, in American English, you might hear, “They fixed it all by theirselves,” which reflects a more informal and colloquial usage. In British English, this usage is even rarer, as ‘themselves’ remains the standard form. It’s important to note that while ‘theirselves’ may be understood in casual conversation, using ‘themselves’ is advisable to maintain clarity and professionalism in writing. By recognizing these differences, learners can improve their understanding of English nuances and enhance their communication skills.

Regional Preferences: Themselves vs Theirselves

English is a dynamic language that varies significantly across different regions, reflecting the rich tapestry of its speakers. While the terms Themselves and Theirselves may appear universally understood, there are notable regional differences in their usage. Choosing the correct form can enhance clarity and connection with your audience, making it essential to consider context and location.

Let’s explore how these terms are utilized in different English-speaking regions, starting with American and British English.

American English

In the United States, the term Themselves is predominantly used in both formal and informal contexts. For instance, one might say, “The students prepared themselves for the exam.” This preference for Themselves is rooted in a standardization of language that favors the more widely accepted form across various settings.

British English

Conversely, in British English, it is not uncommon to encounter Theirselves, especially in more colloquial speech. An example would be, “The children looked after theirselves during the trip.” This form is often favored in informal contexts and reflects a regional linguistic tradition that embraces variations in pronoun usage.

Examples in Context: Themselves vs Theirselves

Understanding the correct usage of “themselves” and “theirselves” is crucial for effective communication in English. Real-life examples illustrate how each term is used in various contexts, providing practical insights that can enhance your writing and conversations. These examples will help learners confidently distinguish between the two terms in their everyday language.

Themselves

The students organized the event by themselves, showcasing their leadership skills.
The children were proud of themselves for completing the project without any help.
After the long hike, they treated themselves to a nice dinner.
She reminded herself to stay calm during the presentation.
The athletes pushed themselves to achieve their personal bests.
They often discuss their feelings with themselves before making decisions.
The team members congratulated themselves on their hard work and dedication.
He took time for himself to relax and recharge after a busy week.

Theirselves

Some people incorrectly use “theirselves” in place of “themselves.”
In informal settings, you might hear others refer to “theirselves” when discussing personal achievements.
“Theirselves” is often used in dialects, but it is not considered standard English.
Many speakers are unaware that “theirselves” is nonstandard and prefer to use “themselves.”
Despite its usage, you should avoid “theirselves” in formal writing.
In casual conversation, some might say they need to focus on theirselves.
It’s important to correct the misconception that “theirselves” is an acceptable term.
Educators emphasize the use of “themselves” to maintain clarity in communication.

Synonyms & Antonyms of Themselves vs Theirselves

Learning synonyms and antonyms is essential for enhancing your vocabulary and communication skills. Synonyms offer variety in both speech and writing, allowing you to express similar ideas with different words, which can make your language more engaging. On the other hand, antonyms provide clarity by highlighting contrasts, helping you to understand the exact meaning of a term. By familiarizing yourself with various word choices, you can sound more fluent and natural in English.

Word	Synonyms	Antonyms
Themselves	thems, their own selves	others, someone else
Theirselves	themselves (informal usage)	others, someone else

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Understanding common mistakes related to “themselves” vs “theirselves” is crucial for mastering English. Even advanced learners can slip up on these terms, and correcting these errors can greatly enhance your fluency and accuracy in communication.

Using “theirselves” instead of “themselves”: “Theirselves” is a nonstandard form often used in some dialects. To avoid this mistake, always use “themselves” as the reflexive pronoun for “they.” Example: “They did it themselves.”
Confusing reflexive pronouns with possessive pronouns: Remember that “themselves” is used to refer back to a previously mentioned subject. Avoid saying “They did it by theirselves.” Instead, use “themselves.”
Misusing in informal contexts: Some may think “theirselves” is acceptable in casual speech. While it may be heard in certain regions, it’s best to use “themselves” in both formal and informal settings to maintain consistency.
Overuse of “themselves”: Avoid using “themselves” when it’s unnecessary. For instance, saying “They themselves went to the store” can be simplified to “They went to the store.” Use “themselves” only for emphasis or clarity.
Regional Variations: Be aware that “theirselves” may appear in some regional dialects, particularly in the UK. However, for formal writing and standard American English, stick to “themselves.”

Tips for Correct Usage

Mastering the correct usage of “themselves” vs. “theirselves” is crucial for clear and professional writing. Properly distinguishing between these terms enhances your grammatical accuracy and ensures your message is conveyed effectively. Below are practical tips to help you use these terms correctly.

Understand the Definitions: “Themselves” is the standard reflexive pronoun used for emphasis or to indicate that the subject of the sentence is also the object. “Theirselves” is a nonstandard variant often used in some dialects.
Use “Themselves” in Formal Writing: In academic or professional contexts, always opt for “themselves” to maintain a formal tone.
Avoid “Theirselves” in Standard English: Unless you are writing dialogue or reflecting a specific dialect, refrain from using “theirselves” in standard English.
Check for Subject-Verb Agreement: Ensure that the reflexive pronoun matches the subject in number and person, using “themselves” for plural subjects.
Be Consistent: Once you choose “themselves,” stick with it throughout your writing to avoid confusion.
Consider Your Audience: Be aware of your audience’s language preferences. In informal settings, some may accept “theirselves,” but it’s best to adhere to standard usage for clarity.
Proofread for Errors: Always review your writing to catch any incorrect usages of “theirselves,” ensuring that “themselves” is used appropriately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between themselves and theirselves?

Themselves is the standard reflexive pronoun used for plural subjects, while theirselves is considered a nonstandard variant primarily used in some dialects of English.

When should I use themselves?

You should use themselves when referring to a group of people or when emphasizing the subject’s actions, such as in “They did it themselves.”

Is theirselves a correct word?

No, theirselves is not considered standard English; the correct form is themselves.

Can I use theirselves in formal writing?

No, it is recommended to avoid using theirselves in formal writing, as it is viewed as incorrect in standard English.

Are there any exceptions for using theirselves?

There are no exceptions in standard English; theirselves may be used informally in certain regional dialects but should be avoided in formal contexts.

How do I know when to use reflexive pronouns?

Use reflexive pronouns like themselves when the subject and object of the verb are the same, for instance, “They taught themselves.”

Why do some people use theirselves?

Some people use theirselves due to regional dialects or informal speech patterns, but it’s important to recognize that it’s not grammatically correct in standard English.

Can you give examples of sentences using themselves?

Sure! Examples include “They enjoyed themselves at the party” and “The students prepared themselves for the exam.”